Are you ready for the biggest shopping weekend of the year? Black Friday is just around the corner, and we're gearing up for the year's biggest deals. As you prepare to dive into an online world of unbeatable prices and high-stake deals, ellesse has compiled ten online safety shopping tips, with a bonus one, just for control.
So, sit tight, pay attention, and internalise our online safety shopping tips so you can shop confidently and focus on scoring those must-have ellesse pieces.
Here's how to shop safely and boldly with ellesse this Black Friday!
Shop From Verified Retailers
When shopping online this Black Friday, ensure the website is secure (look for "https" and the padlock symbol). Also, look up reviews on social media to ensure the retailer has a solid reputation.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication boosts security on your phone and laptop. Many sites offer this extra layer of protection, and it's best to use it. Logging into your device is much more difficult without access to your secondary verification method.
Keep Your Device Secure
Before browsing for unbeatable deals, take a moment to secure your device and update it with the latest security patches and software updates, helping guard against malware and hackers.
Beware of Phishing Emails
Phishing scams have become more prevalent leading up to and during Black Friday. Practice caution, especially with sensitive information. Always check the sender's email address for suspicious links and attachments, avoid clicking on these, and ensure the email address is legit.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Your online passwords are your first line of defence; make sure they are strong and unique and contain symbols, letters, and numbers. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, and use a password manager to keep everything organised.
Stay on the Lookout for Fake Websites
It's easy to fall for a website that looks sleek and polished. However, scammers are great at making websites look legit. One way to spot scamming websites is to look for misspellings, dodgy customer service details, or overly flashy deals. Remember, if in doubt, to trust your instinct and avoid lingering on those websites, emails, and even WhatsApp messages.
Use Secure Payment Methods
When purchasing online, stick to trusted platforms and secure payment methods such as PAYGATE, Mastercard, and Mobicred. These offer an added layer of protection, allowing you to dispute charges if anything goes wrong.
Read Reviews and Shop Smart
Big purchases on Black Friday are a thing. But, ensure you read reviews about what other customers say about a particular product or service and save yourself valuable time and money.
Check Return Policies
Understanding return and refund policies is essential, making your return or refund process seamless and stress-free.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Purchases
Public Wi-Fi is a huge no-no when shopping online. It is often unsecured, making it easy for hackers to gain access to your data. Avoid using it at all costs and wait until you are on a secure network. Alternatively, use a VPN for added protection.
Monitor those bank statements, people! If you notice any unfamiliar transactions, report them immediately as fraud.
Shopping mindfully and safely should not take the fun out of your Black Friday shopping weekend; in fact, it should enhance it! This Black Friday, shop boldly and safely, and make this your best one yet!