Don’t Get Tricked by Holiday Shopping Scams!

As we head into the holiday shopping season, it is more important than ever to stay alert for online scams. Cybercriminals often take advantage of this busy time by targeting shoppers with fake deals and phishing campaigns.

To wrap up Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Department of Information Technology  has compiled valuable tips to help you recognize authentic deals, secure your payment methods, and spot suspicious activities. These strategies will help you enjoy a joyful and safe shopping experience.

Don’t Fall for Fake Discounts 

• The Trick: Cybercriminals lure shoppers with discounts that seem too good to be true.

• What to Do: Verify suspicious offers by visiting the retailer’s official website. Inspect URLs for typos or extra characters, and avoid clicking on links from unfamiliar sources. Use credit cards or PayPal for added protection.

• The Treat: When you use secure payment methods, you may earn cashback rewards or points toward future purchases, which are perfect for holiday savings.

Beware of the Gift Card Scam 

• The Trick: Scammers may impersonate Seton Hall members, claiming they are stuck in a meeting or class and need your help buying gift cards. They will ask for a photo of the scratched-off code, promising reimbursement.

• What to Do: Always verify the sender’s identity, especially if the message seems urgent or unexpected. If you suspect a scam, report it to IT Security using the Report Phishing button on your Outlook toolbar. 

• The Treat: You avoided the scam, and your quick response helps protect the entire Seton Hall community from future phishing attempts.

Spot and Report Phishing Attempts 

• The Trick: Phishing texts and emails often claim suspicious activity on your account to trick you into clicking malicious links or calling fake customer service numbers.

• What to Do: Visit the company’s official website directly to verify your account. Use the customer service number on the back of your credit card if needed. To report suspected phishing emails to IT Security, click the Report Phishing button on your Outlook toolbar. 

• The Treat: Staying alert keeps your personal information secure and allows you to enjoy the holiday season without the distress of identity theft or fraud.

Monitor Bank Activity and Check for Suspicious Deposits 

• The Trick: Attackers sometimes use public bank routing numbers to make small deposits, usually just a few cents, to test if an account is active. If the deposit succeeds, they may send phishing emails to trick you into entering your login credentials and gaining full access to your account.

• What to Do: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized or suspicious transactions, especially after making online purchases. If you notice an unexpected deposit, contact your bank immediately. They can trace the source and block further suspicious activity.

• The Treat: Catching these attempts early keeps your accounts secure and allows you to shop with confidence.

Stay Safe and Avoid Scary Surprises 

A few simple precautions can protect you from online scams. Stick to secure payment methods, verify promotions on official websites, monitor your accounts closely, and practice safe computing throughout the holiday season. 

Categories: Science and Technology