Thanksgiving and Black Friday bring some of the busiest shopping activity of the year. Whether you’re hunting for early deals online, heading out before sunrise to beat the crowds, or waiting for doorbusters, safety should always come first. With large gatherings, high-traffic stores, and an internet full of “too good to be true” offers, it’s more important than ever to stay aware and protect yourself both physically and digitally.
This guide covers everything you need to know to stay safe while enjoying one of the biggest shopping periods of the year.
Staying Safe Online
Watch out for fake Black Friday websites
Cybercriminals create look-alike websites with big, urgent deals to lure shoppers into entering payment details. Always double-check the web address, avoid unfamiliar retailers, and stick to well-known or verified sellers.
Use secure payment methods
Credit cards and reputable digital wallets offer better fraud protection than debit cards. Avoid direct bank transfers and unfamiliar payment apps when shopping online.
Don’t click suspicious deal links
Emails or social media posts advertising deals that seem unbelievable often lead to phishing pages. Instead of clicking, manually type the retailer’s website into your browser or use their official app.
Use strong, unique passwords
If you’re creating or logging into retail accounts, make sure your passwords are strong and not reused across other services. A compromised shopping account could expose your personal information or stored payment details.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Many major retailers offer 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code to log in. It’s a quick way to prevent unauthorized access during peak shopping season.
Staying Safe In-Store
When shopping in-store, protect your payment information by covering your PIN and giving the card reader a quick look to make sure it appears normal, not loose or damaged. Also keep a secure hold on your phone when using digital wallets and confirm each transaction before walking away so nothing is left incomplete.
Protecting Your Personal Information
Limit sharing
Whether online or in-store, only provide the information necessary to complete your purchase. Avoid saving payment details to new or unfamiliar accounts.
Beware of public Wi-Fi
Open networks — like those at coffee shops or malls — are convenient but risky. Avoid entering payment or personal information while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Check your bank statements
With the increase in holiday transactions, it’s easier for unauthorized charges to blend in. Reviewing statements frequently helps you catch fraud early
Have a plan — but stay flexible
Whether navigating through aisles or moving between stores, taking your time reduces the chance of spontaneous or unnecessary purchases.
Know which stores you want to visit, what deals you’re targeting, and how much you’re comfortable spending. A plan keeps you focused and prevents impulse decisions.
Thanksgiving and Black Friday can be exciting days filled with unbeatable offers, early-morning shopping traditions, and the start of the holiday season. But staying safe — both in-person and online — is essential to making the most of it.
With a bit of preparation, awareness, and smart decision-making, you can enjoy the hunt for great deals without putting yourself or your personal information at risk. Whether you’re hitting the aisles or browsing from your couch, safe shopping is smart shopping.
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