The Holidays are Almost Here! Shop Smart!

It’s easy to get swept up in online holiday shopping. With cyber threats on the rise, ensuring your personal and financial information remains secure is essential. Please shop smart, stay safe and keep your finances in check this holiday season!

Smart Online Shopping Practices

Online shopping means no lines, no hassle and everything gets delivered to your door! But it comes with risks. Shop safely online by:

• Sticking to Trusted Retailers: Shop from well-known, reputable websites. Look for reviews and a secure website if you’re trying a new store. Check for ‘https://’ and a padlock icon in the URL.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Making purchases or entering sensitive info over public Wi-Fi can expose your data to prying eyes. Utilize protected Wi-Fi.
• Enable Alerts: Set up alerts for your credit and debit cards to track any unusual transactions instantly.

Protect Personal and Financial Information

Your account numbers and other details are the keys to your financial world. Here’s how to lock them up tight this season:

• Use Strong Passwords: Make your passwords complex, lengthy and unique for each site. A password manager can help you keep track of them all!
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Wherever possible, enable 2FA to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
• Beware of Phishing Scams: Cybercriminals love the holidays. Be cautious of emails, ads or texts offering deals that are “too good to be true.” Don’t click on suspicious links or provide personal info to unsolicited requests.
• Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank accounts and cards for unauthorized transactions. Report any suspicious activity immediately.

Recognize and Avoid Holiday Scams 

Scammers know we’re distracted during the holidays, so they ramp up their efforts. Be on the lookout for these common tricks:

• Fake Delivery Notices: Phishing emails and text messages pretending to be from FedEx, UPS or USPS may ask for payment or personal details. Always verify tracking details directly on the company website.
• Charity Scams: The holidays are a time for giving, but be wary of unsolicited donation requests. Research charities to ensure your generosity reaches real causes.
• Online Marketplaces: If you’re buying or selling on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, meet in a safe, well-lit public place and use cashless, traceable transaction methods.

At Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, our mission is to keep you empowered and informed, no matter what time of year. Here’s to a safe, joyful and financially stress-free holiday season!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Solidarity Community FCU! 🎄