Protect Your Credit Card During Holiday Shopping

The holiday season brings great deals—and greater risk for credit card fraud. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, use these simple tips to keep your financial information safe.

🛒 In-Store Shopping Safety Tips

✅ Use secure payment methods – Credit cards are safer than debit cards because they offer stronger fraud protection.
✅ Shield the keypad when entering your PIN.
✅ Inspect card readers for loose parts or anything that looks altered (possible skimmers).
✅ Keep your card in sight during transactions—don’t let it disappear behind a counter.
✅ Hold on to receipts and match them with your statements.
✅ Avoid public Wi-Fi when using payment apps in stores.

💻 Online Shopping Safety Tips

✅ Shop only from secure websites – Look for “https://” and the lock icon.
✅ Avoid clicking deal links in unsolicited texts or emails (phishing scams).
✅ Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager if possible.
✅ Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on retail and financial accounts.
✅ Use virtual card numbers if your card issuer offers them.
✅ Never save card info on shared or public computers.

🔔 Monitor & Act Fast

✅ Set up real-time transaction alerts with your bank or card issuer.
✅ Review statements frequently during the holiday season.
✅ Report suspicious charges immediately—fast action limits your liability.

🎁 Extra Holiday Protection Tip

Never overshare on social media about gifts, travel plans, or deliveries—criminals use that information to time fraud and theft.

A little caution now can save a lot of stress later.
Shop smart. Shop safe.