With the holiday season in full swing, Visa's 2024 Holiday Threats Report highlights an increase in scams and fraud targeting consumers. As shopping both online and in-store escalates, cybercriminals are ramping up their tactics to steal payment details and funds. To help shoppers protect themselves, Visa has released a set of practical safety tips for a secure holiday shopping experience.
Always check for "https" in the website's URL and the padlock symbol in the browser bar. These indicate the site uses encryption to safeguard your data.
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Fraudsters often attract victims with deals that seem too good to pass up. If something looks too great to be real, it likely is.
Credit and debit cards typically offer superior fraud protection. Avoid money transfers, wire transfers, and peer-to-peer apps, as scammers frequently target these.
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Phishing scams increase during the holidays. Do not click on links in unsolicited emails or messages. Verify the sender directly via customer service or their official app before sharing any personal details.
Regular updates are critical as they often include security patches that address emerging threats. Make sure all your devices and software are up to date.
Each online account should have a unique password. Enable 2FA wherever possible to make it harder for fraudsters to gain access.
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Review your bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorised transactions. Set up transaction alerts and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Scammers often exploit the holiday season by setting up fake charities. Before donating, do your research using reliable resources like Charity Navigator to ensure your contribution reaches a legitimate cause.
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