{"id":4495,"date":"2022-12-13T22:27:15","date_gmt":"2022-12-13T22:27:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/44\/?p=4495"},"modified":"2024-03-21T14:44:19","modified_gmt":"2024-03-21T14:44:19","slug":"digital-security-101-five-safety-tips-for-holiday-gift-shopping-online-tips-for-avoiding-scams-frauds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/44\/texas\/westaustin\/blog\/digital-security-101-five-safety-tips-for-holiday-gift-shopping-online-tips-for-avoiding-scams-frauds\/","title":{"rendered":"Digital Security 101: Five Safety Tips for Avoiding Scams for Holiday Gift Shopping Online"},"content":{"rendered":"

During the holiday season the deals and sales are endless on the internet, which can be a great option when shopping for gifts for your friends and family. Especially for seniors, online shopping is a great way to avoid the crowds and long lines in stores and have packages delivered to your doorstep. But before the shopping marathon begins here are some tips for avoiding scams!<\/span><\/p>\n

Not every website is a safe place to give your credit card information to. Shopping on one wrong website may result in being tricked by a scam, which could result in <\/span>identity theft<\/span><\/a>. According to a Pew Research Center survey, as of 2018, nearly 66% of Americans over 65 were internet users. With that number constantly growing it is important that all seniors understand the risks and how to manage them when shopping online. <\/span><\/p>\n

We here at Assisting Hands in West Austin take digital security seriously, and below are some tips for avoiding scams and staying savvy online this holiday season. Have fun shopping for your loved ones, but avoid the cyber pickpockets who are definitely on the naughty list!<\/span><\/p>\n

Stick to a Credit Card<\/span><\/h3>\n

When buying anything online it is best to use a credit card, rather than a debit card, for the most secure option. Since debit cards are linked to your bank account, it gives hackers more ability to steal your information and money. And since credit cards will usually immediately notify you of any suspicious transactions, you will be able to reverse any fraud or scam charges more quickly. And if you do need to dispute a charge, you won\u2019t be liable for the purchase during the dispute.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Never Open Suspicious Emails<\/span><\/h3>\n

During the holiday season, scammers will use fake emails to send viruses to unsuspecting victims. These emails will be disguised as sales or special offers from real companies you have most likely heard of and will try to steal your passwords and other personal information. These emails are called \u201cphishing\u201d scams and should be avoided at all costs. Here are few tips for avoiding scams to recognize if an email is fake or not:<\/span><\/p>\n