Beware on Black Friday

Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year and scammers/hackers are primed to steal your information.  Here are some things to guard for:

Online

• Use an ad-blocker and pop-up blocker to keep the scam ads and “too good to be true” offerings at a minimum
• Only use sites that you are familiar with
• Beware of phishing
• Watch links in your social media which might link you to websites that are cloned. 
• Always use a url with an https in the front of the address
• Don’t give too much personal information when shopping.  A shipping address and email address is all the store needs to keep you updated
• Protect your device

**Shopping **

• Keep your purse close to your body or wallet in an inside coat pocket, never leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart or basket
• Only take your credit card, some cash and your driver’s license.  Much better option than taking your purse
• Be alert and aware when you are shopping
• Keep your hands free
• Park your car in a well-lighted area and lock it when you leave
• Don’t leave packages in the front or back seats, place securely in your trunk
• If shopping with others, make sure you can keep in touch via cellphone

Make your gift buying experience a pain-free one.