Over the Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend (24th-27th November) retailers offer discounts that can make even the most frugal of buyers loosen their purse strings. The financial stakes are higher than ever, with sales across the weekend expected to reach almost £4 billion.
However, in the ever-evolving contest between cyber security experts and cyber criminals, it’s essential for businesses and consumers to stay on their toes. Last year in the UK alone, shoppers lost £10 million, with 25–34-year-olds being the most likely to fall victim. So, this Black Friday, make sure your virtual shopping cart is protected with these useful cyber security tips:
- Shop at reputable retailers to avoid scams. Steer clear of unfamiliar websites or social media ads with too-good-to-be-true deals.
- Choose secure payment methods like credit cards or trusted online gateways for fraud protection. Avoid wire transfers and gift cards.
- Watch out for phishing emails or messages posing as Black Friday deals. Always double-check URLs and avoid clicking on unknown senders’ links or attachments.
