Razaq Kazeem @.Kazeem.R / 5:00 PM EDT. December 7, 2022.
The holidays are here and you know what that means? Shopping! The easiest way to do it is online. Because there are just so many websites out there, it can be difficult to find the best deals out there. So I've been doing some research myself and created this guide on how to score amazing deals during the holidays without draining your finances.
As a consumer, there is always that opportunity to compare the prices of products and services. It's an easy way to save money and make your life easier. Yet, how many of us actually do it with ease? By following these tips, you'll be able to navigate through their online shopping experience without any hassle.
The holidays are just around the corner, and with them comes a list of shopping tasks. From getting your family gifts to finding the perfect gift for your loved ones, there's no shortage of things to do. If you're like many people, you may be considering how to shop online this holiday season.
Here are 10 easy tips for shopping online this holiday season:
1. Use a VPN before you shop online at all.
The best way to keep yourself secure is by using a VPN service, which can help encrypt all of your personal information before it leaves your computer or mobile device. There's no way for hackers to steal your personal information if they can't access it first! This is especially important if you're purchasing items from different vendors or stores who have different websites (like Amazon and Target), as those vendors aren't always required to comply with the same privacy laws as other companies in their industry (like Apple).
2. Use an email address that isn't linked to any social media accounts or other personal data (like Facebook).
When shopping online, hackers often try to find out as much information about their targets as possible – including their email address – so they can send phishing emails with links that look like legitimate sites but actually lead directly.
3. Be on the lookout for scams
At least once per week, check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges. Alternately, set up account alerts to notify you of any new card activity. You can check your account when you get a text or email notification to make sure you recognize the charge.
4. Compare prices
Before placing an order, check out different prices on different websites and compare them side by side so you know how much you can save with each shop. Be sure to include taxes and shipping costs when comparing prices between stores.
5. Use a coupon code or promo code.
There are plenty of them to choose from at sites like Amazon and eBay. You can even buy them yourself if you're savvy enough!
6. Look for sales.
Just because something is marked down doesn't mean it's a good deal — so look around before purchasing anything (or anything else, for that matter). Some stores offer discounts daily; others have promos going on throughout the year.
7. Beware of outrageous discounts
Have you seen a Facebook or Instagram ad for a product advertising free shipping or incredibly low prices? Always keep in mind that if an offer seems too good to be true, it generally is. Shop around before making a purchase. Be warned that many phony websites advertise themselves even on social media.
8. Don't use public WiFi to browse
When possible, stay away from utilizing public WiFi. Private information like your name, address, and credit card number that a thief or hacker would love to get hold of are frequently required while shopping online.
9. Avoid falling for email fraud
You can receive emails or texts touting fantastic deals or alleging that a product delivery has been unsuccessful. Delete any mails from unknown senders that seem suspicious. Additionally, avoid opening attachments and clicking links in messages as they may infect your phone or computer with malware and viruses.
10. Be careful with your personal data
Here's a basic guideline: Never provide your Social Security Number on a purchasing website. Consider it a warning sign if a website does ask for this kind of extremely personal information. Give reliable sellers the minimal personal information required to execute a transaction.
You might be able to stop scammers in their tracks and prevent becoming a target by using these online shopping safety guidelines. Be careful!