Six Tips For Shopping Safely On Black Friday
Plan ahead
Planning ahead means you'll spend less, be out of line faster and decrease your risk of missing out on a great deal. Spend some time browsing your favorite stores online for deals and know where you need to be and when in order to get exactly what you want.
Credit card only
Credit cards are the best way to shop. You can always dispute a charge; you can never reclaim stolen cash. If using a debit card, remember to cover the payment terminal with your other hand when inputting your PIN.
Shop with a friend
The mall may be crowded and a determined thief may find a way to sneak off with your belongings. Stick with your friends and never enter deserted areas alone. Besides, shopping is always better when you share the great deals with a bestie or two!
Keep your cool
Nothing you can purchase on Black Friday is worth your health or safety. Avoid all scuffles with fellow shoppers.
Move your car
If you spend the day at the mall and routinely drop off your bags in your car, it's best to move your car to a different spot. Thieves watch shoppers leaving the mall with lots of bags and follow them to their cars. If they see you dropping off your goodies and then heading back to the mall, they'll consider making off with your things. If you drive off, though, they'll think you're leaving and won't follow you.
Online safety
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are notorious for online scams of every kind. Here's what to remember when shopping online:
- Beware of phishing scams
- Be alert for suspicious looking emails and links. Delete anything that doesn't look right.
- Make sure your connection is secure Verify security by looking for the padlock icon on the address bar and by using sites with an "S" tacked on to the "http." C.
Pay securely
Only use trusted payment systems like PayPal or GoogleWallet. Shop from sites you trust and make sure they're legitimate by checking the URL and looking out for sites that end in .org or .net. Never agree to wire money for a purchase. D. Strengthen your system Before shopping online, check that your device's security systems are updated with the most recent protection and security patches. If you're using Wi-Fi, make sure the network is secure and requires a password to join.
SOURCES:
https://www.moneycrashers.com/black-friday-tips-for-safe-shopping/
https://www.consumersafety.org/news/safety/stay-safe-shopping-on-black-friday-and-cyber-monday/
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