As we approach Black Friday many people will be hoping to capitalize on some of the biggest sales of the year.
Over the years the day has become synonymous with the purchasing of extravagant gifts and fulfilling one’s wish list – with all the prices dropping, who wouldn’t want to tick those boxes and spoil yourself with an early Christmas gift?
However, it is important to remember that Black Friday often attracts big crowds, and big crowds attract lots of scammers. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you make responsible choices when purchasing items online.
Fortunately, Wired, a website that focuses on all things tech and innovation has a list of tips you need to follow to ensure that you do not become a victim of scammers.
Update your software
According to the above-mentioned website, Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Mozilla are now making it increasingly difficult for scammers to hack your computer.
This is due to the option of allowing you to constantly update your system on a regular basis. If you are someone who often delays the updating process, you are encouraged to do so ahead of Black Friday. Additionally, if your laptop is outdated and struggling to accept the latest software, it would be wiser to make use of your phone when shopping online.
Avoid emails and social media deals
You might find yourself swamped by the number of emails and deals on social media. Be wise and be smart. The best thing to do in this scenario is to avoid clicking any links sent to you.
If something really gains your interest, the wise thing to do is to type the name of the website yourself in a different browser, this should take you to the real website where you can search the deal you initially saw to see if it is real.
Do your research
It is important to make your purchases at trusted stores. When making a purchase, check that the URL has “HTTPS://” technology (indicated with a padlock in your browser’s address bar).
Check for contact numbers, addresses, and social media information and whether it is active, and whether there are reviews left by customers.
Additionally, Discovery Bank, a South African global financial service provider, stresses that it is important to avoid using public wi-fi as criminals can use unprotected networks to access personal information.
Guard your payment info and protect your accounts
The best way of protecting your account is to have strong combinations within your passwords. Make use of letters, numbers and a combination of symbols that carry significance to you.
If you are away from home, it would be wise to wait until home before making purchases, this will minimize the risk of someone looking over your shoulder and stealing your details.
According to Discovery, another way of protecting yourself is by using different passwords for each website you register on, should something happen, your information would be protected.
Also see: Tips for Black Friday savings that lasts up to Januworry
