The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the excitement of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These annual shopping extravaganzas have transitioned from in-store chaos to virtual shopping sprees, offering consumers incredible deals from the comfort of their homes.  

However, as the popularity of online shopping soars, so does the risk of falling victim to cyber threats and scams. With that in mind, we put together some essential cybersecurity tips to ensure your online shopping experience during Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023 is both enjoyable and secure. 

1. Stick to trusted websites

One fundamental rule of online shopping is to stick with websites you know and trust. Shopping with established retailers reduces the risk of falling victim to fraudulent websites. Be cautious of websites with misspellings or different top-level domains that imitate popular sites. When possible, use third-party payment options like PayPal for an additional layer of security. 

2. Secure your network

Public wifi networks can be tempting while shopping on the go, but they are also prime targets for cybercriminals. Avoid using public wifi networks, even if they are password protected. If you must shop on public networks, activate a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data and protect it from prying eyes. 

3. Embrace the power of VPNs

 VPNs are not just for security; they can also help you unlock geo-restricted deals. By masking your location, you can access better prices and offers from different regions. Ensure that you have a reliable VPN service in place to safeguard your personal information while shopping online. 

4. Avoid over-sharing

Cybercriminals thrive on personal information. Be cautious about sharing excessive personal details on shopping websites. Legitimate online retailers typically require only essential information like your name, billing address, email address, and credit card information. Never share sensitive information like your social security number or income. 

5. Monitor your accounts

Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements, especially during the holiday season. Regularly reviewing your accounts for suspicious transactions can help you detect and report fraudulent activity promptly. If you notice anything amiss, contact your bank or card issuer immediately. 

6. Beware of too-good-to-be-true deals

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure shoppers with unbelievable discounts. Always double-check the legitimacy of deals and sellers. Compare prices across different websites to ensure you are getting a fair offer. Don't be swayed by irresistible offers that may lead to disappointment. 

7. Protect against phishing  

Phishing scams can be prevalent during the holiday season. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, especially those containing links. Instead of clicking on links, type the retailer's URL into your web browser manually to ensure you are on the official website. 

8. Avoid saving payment information

While the convenience of saving payment information may be tempting, it's safer to avoid it, particularly during the shopping season. By not saving your credit card details on retail websites, you reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your financial information. 

9. Use virtual credit cards

For an extra layer of protection, consider using virtual credit cards. Third-party payment services like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay offer added security when making online purchases. These services can help safeguard your credit card information. 

10. Employ an adblocker

Adblockers not only improve your browsing experience by eliminating annoying ads but also enhance security. Some ads can be used as vehicles for malware or phishing attempts. Adblockers reduce your exposure to these risks. 

11. Consider Avast One

Avast One offers comprehensive protection for your device, encompassing a range of essential features. It shields your device from viruses and malware, ensuring your data's safety. With Avast One, you can keep scams and phishing attempts at bay, safeguarding your inbox from potential threats. The included free VPN service provides secure connectivity with 5 GB of weekly data, enhancing your online privacy. You can also easily identify compromised passwords and take steps to fortify your accounts. Lastly, Avast One helps optimize your device's performance, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently. 

 Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer incredible opportunities to snag great deals, but they also come with cybersecurity challenges. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can enjoy a secure and worry-free online shopping experience during Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023. Happy shopping!