Reading time: 2 minutes
Black Friday is here, and the hunt for epic deals is officially on! Whether you’re snagging that must-have gadget you’ve been eyeing or indulging in some much-needed retail therapy, it’s an exciting time to shop. But while you’re racing for deals, cyber criminals are racing to catch unsuspecting shoppers.
The good news? With a few simple precautions, you can avoid their scams, shop safely, and enjoy those savings like a digital ninja!
Our recommendations:
Have a plan
Sales events love to pressure you into quick decisions, but don’t fall for the hype! Take a breath and think before you buy. Make a list of must-haves, and don’t stray from it. You’ll save money and avoid buyer’s remorse later.
Stick to the big names
Imagine buying a phone from a sketchy street corner—sounds risky, right? The same goes for online shopping! Stick with websites you know and trust, like the big ones you’ve shopped from before. If something feels off or the deal is just too good, it’s probably not safe. Always check the website’s address and do a quick search to make sure it’s legit. It only takes a minute!
Don’t take the bait
Received an email or text offering 60% off? Emails or texts are a scammer’s favourite bait. Instead of clicking, type the store’s website into your browser or search for it yourself. If the sale is real, you’ll find it on their site. If not, you just avoided a major headache!
Level up your password game!
Think of your password as your ultimate power-up. Simple ones like names or words won’t do the job. Use four random words, like “Purple-Robot-Coffee91,” and you’re playing on expert mode! Want extra protection? Turn on Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) to block the cyber baddies. And if keeping up with all your passwords feels too hard, a password manager is your cheat code!
Protect your wallet
When shopping online, credit cards are your reliable sidekick. They protect you better from fraud and help you dispute any sketchy charges. For even more safety, try using PayPal or another secure payment service to keep your financial info safe.
Further information:
For more information on staying cyber secure, refer to the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s (ACSC) guide and checklist. If think you’ve fallen for a scam and need assistance, visit the ACSC’s how to recover from scams website.
This article has been brought to you by Digital & Technology Solutions
#MakeCurtinCyberSafe
