Simple Ways to Stay Safe Online
Cybercriminals ramp up their activity every holiday season, creating fake shopping sites, phishing emails, and scam ads. But with the right tools, zero-risk holiday shopping is possible – and easier than you think.
Two of the most effective protections are password managers and virtual cards. Here’s how they help keep your information safe.
Tools to Use for Zero-Risk Holiday Shopping
Password managers create and store strong, unique passwords for every account. This prevents password reuse, one of the main causes of account breaches.
Virtual cards provide temporary or single-use card numbers linked to your real account. Retailers never see your actual card details, reducing your risk of fraud – even if a website is compromised.
Together, they create a powerful foundation for zero-risk holiday shopping.
6 Quick Tips for Zero-Risk
2. Create a Strong Master Password: use a long, unique passphrase. This is the key to your entire password vault.
3. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication: 2FA adds a critical layer of protection and blocks attackers – even if they get your password.
4. Create a Virtual Card for Each Retailer: most banks and payment apps offer virtual cards. If one number is stolen, your real account stays safe.
5. Use Spending Limits and Check Expiration Dates: limit help with holiday budgeting and prevent crazy fraudulent charges.
6. Shop Only on Secure Websites: look for https:// and a padlock icon. Avoid clicking links in emails or ads – they’re often phishing attempts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Reusing Passwords – Use a unique one for every site
- Using Public Wi-Fi – Use mobile data or a secure network
- Ignoring Security Alerts – Be sure to check notifications from your bank and password manager
- Saving Card Details in Browser – Use virtual cards instead
Shop Smarter and Safer This Season
Learn more about holiday scams and online safety:
Stay safe. Stay confident. Start your zero-risk holiday shopping!