5 Tips to Stay Cyber-Safe This Black Friday 

Protect yourself from cyber threats during the shopping season by following these key safety practices: 

1. Watch Out for Phishing Scams 

Examine Emails Closely: Pay close attention to emails claiming to be from popular retailers. Check for inconsistencies in the sender’s address, grammar, and overall tone. 

Verify Links: Hover over any links in emails to preview the actual URL. If it looks suspicious or doesn’t match the expected site, don’t click. 

Ignore Urgent Requests: Be cautious of messages urging immediate action. Cybercriminals often use pressure tactics to trick victims into quick, unwise decisions. 

2. Shop on Trusted and Secure Websites 

Stick to Reputable Retailers: Shop with well-known and trusted stores. Avoid unfamiliar websites, especially those offering prices that seem too good to be true. 

Check for HTTPS: Ensure the website URL starts with “https” and has a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar, indicating a secure connection. 

Beware of Fake Sites: Look out for phishing websites mimicking legitimate stores. Double-check URLs and be wary of poor design or unusual language. 

3. Use Strong Passwords and Good Account Practices 

Create Unique Passwords: Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols for each account. 

Avoid Reusing Passwords: Reusing passwords makes you vulnerable. A breach in one account could lead to others being compromised. 

Use a Password Manager: Password managers can help you create and securely store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. 

4. Be Careful with Online Ads 

Verify Deals: Cross-check deals advertised online by visiting the retailer’s official website directly. 

Avoid Suspicious Links: Steer clear of pop-ups and ads offering unrealistic discounts or freebies. 

Use Ad-Blockers: Ad-blocking tools can help minimize exposure to potentially malicious ads. 

5. Keep Your Devices Secure 

Update Regularly: Install updates for your operating system, browser, and other software to patch security vulnerabilities. 

Use Antivirus Software: Protect your devices with reliable antivirus programs to detect and block threats. 

By implementing these tips, you can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to cyberattacks and enjoy a safer, stress-free Black Friday shopping experience.