Stay safe while shopping online this holiday season

Understanding the rise of online scams

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it also marks the beginning of one of the most significant shopping periods of the year. Unfortunately, this surge in online shopping attracts not only eager consumers but also crafty scammers looking to exploit unsuspecting shoppers. In 2023, reports of fraud have skyrocketed, with authorities like the Alberta RCMP noting over 8,500 cases of unauthorized credit card use in the lead-up to the holidays. This alarming trend highlights the importance of being vigilant while shopping online.

How scammers operate

Cybersecurity experts, such as Ritesh Kotak, emphasize that scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, largely due to advancements in artificial intelligence. Gone are the days when phishing emails were riddled with spelling mistakes and awkward phrasing. Today, scammers can create convincing emails that appear legitimate, making it challenging for even the most cautious shoppers to discern between real and fake communications. As the holiday season approaches, consumers must be aware of the tactics used by these fraudsters, especially with the rise of package tracking scams that lure individuals into providing personal information.

Tips for safe online shopping

To navigate the holiday shopping landscape safely, it’s crucial to adopt best practices for online transactions. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Look for secure websites: Always check for a padlock symbol in the browser’s address bar, indicating that the site is secure and your transactions will be encrypted.
• Use a separate email address: Consider creating a dedicated email for online shopping to keep your personal and transaction-related communications separate.
• Opt for credit cards: When making purchases, use a credit card instead of e-transfers. Credit cards often provide better fraud protection and insurance for your purchases.

Additionally, consumers should remain cautious of unsolicited emails or texts claiming to provide package tracking information. These messages may be attempts to harvest your login credentials or other sensitive data. If you suspect you have fallen victim to a scam, report it to local authorities and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Reporting these incidents helps law enforcement gauge the scale of the problem and take necessary actions to protect consumers.