GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ – With the arrival of Cyber Monday, Gloucester Township Police Department issued a series of tips to help shoppers stay safe from online scams and cyber threats.
Key Safety Tips Include:
- Beware of False Advertising and Phony Websites: Shoppers should be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true and closely inspect web addresses to ensure they are visiting legitimate sites. Lookalike websites are a common tactic used by scammers.
- Shop with Trustworthy Sellers on Secure Sites: It’s advised to shop only with reputable businesses and ensure web pages are secure, indicated by “HTTPS” in the web address.
- Keep Antivirus Software Updated: To protect against phishing scams and malicious websites, keeping antivirus software up to date on computers and mobile devices is crucial.
- Price Check Before Buying: Comparing prices across different retailers is recommended to ensure you’re getting a genuine deal.
- Use Rewards and Loyalty Programs: Shoppers are encouraged to make use of credit card rewards and retailer loyalty programs for additional savings and benefits.
- Use Credit Cards for Online Purchases: Credit cards offer better protection against fraud compared to debit cards. Avoid using prepaid debit cards or wire transfers for online purchases.
- Understand Return Policies: Shoppers should read and understand return policies, which may vary for Cyber Monday deals, especially regarding “final sale” or “closeout” items.
- Watch Out for Phishing Scams: Increased online activity during this period means a higher risk of falling victim to phishing scams. Shoppers should be wary of unsolicited communications asking for personal information or claiming issues with deliveries.
The Gloucester Township Police Department emphasizes the importance of these precautions to ensure a safe and secure online shopping experience during Cyber Monday and the holiday season. Shoppers are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious online activities.
