The holidays are here: twinkling lights, cozy nights, and endless shopping lists. Online shopping makes it easy to skip the crowds and find the perfect gifts from the comfort of your couch. But while you’re hunting for deals, scammers are hunting for you. But don’t worry, we have a few holiday online shopping safety tips!

Here’s how to keep your holiday shopping merry, bright, and secure:

1. Stick to Trusted Retailers
Big-name stores and reputable brands are your safest bet. Be cautious with unfamiliar sites promising “too-good-to-be-true” deals—they often are.

2. Double-Check Before You Click

• Call the retailer to confirm they’re legit.
• Google the company name + “reviews” to see what others say.

3. Look for Security Seals
A “Buy Safe” or similar certification can be a good sign, but always verify.

4. Check for HTTPS
Before entering payment info, make sure the site starts with https:// and shows a padlock icon. No padlock? No purchase.

5. Use Secure Payment Options
Credit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay offer strong protections. Avoid wire transfers or sending cash.

6. Share Only What’s Necessary
If a site asks for your Social Security number or date of birth, that’s a red flag. Stick to shipping and payment details only.

7. Beware of Holiday Phishing
Scammers love sending fake “special offer” emails. Don’t click embedded links. Type the retailer’s URL yourself.

Bottom line: Online shopping is convenient, but safety matters. Protect your personal info like you’d guard your wallet at a busy mall. Following these holiday online shopping safety tips will help make your holidays a little less stressful. Stay smart, shop safe, and have a joyful holiday season!