Hack Frost? ’Tis the season for cyber caution

As you start checking off everyone on your holiday shopping list, it’s important to remember that more online shopping means more opportunities for cyber scams. But don’t let the Grinch steal your holiday cheer! It’s time to make a list of essential cybersecurity tips — and check it twice — to ensure a safe and merry shopping experience.

Unwrap some festive tips to keep your holiday season jolly and scam-free.

01
Update your devices for a holly jolly holiday

In our tech-driven lives, our devices act as our personal elves, guarding our digital stockings. Regular updates help to patch vulnerabilities and protect you from the latest security threats. So, as you prepare for your holiday online shopping sprees, make sure all your devices — smartphones, tablets, laptops — are running the latest operating systems. This not only enhances security but also improves functionality, making your online experience smoother as you shop for that perfect holiday gift.

02
Protect your holiday cheer: Avoid public Wi-Fi for financial transactions

As you dash through shopping malls or bustling airports, the convenience of public Wi-Fi can be tempting. However, these unsecured networks can quickly become a hacker’s winter wonderland, making it risky to conduct financial transactions or access sensitive information. Instead, opt for secure networks that require a password or, better yet, use your mobile data when making purchases. It’s always worth waiting for a safer connection to protect your personal details and avoid potential cyber pitfalls during your holiday shopping adventures.

03
Stay off the naughty list: Skip ads and go straight to the site

While it’s easy to get drawn in by eye-catching ads promising unbeatable holiday deals, clicking on them can expose you to scams. Advertisements often track your data and lead you to fraudulent websites. Instead, take a moment to type the URL directly into your browser. This small yet impactful action not only safeguards your personal information but ensures that you reach legitimate sites for your holiday shopping, allowing you to shop with confidence.

04
Keep your digital wallet as safe as Santa’s sleigh

Digital wallets are convenient tools for both in-person and online shopping, especially as you navigate holiday markets or browse for gifts during your travels. They encrypt your account details, ensuring your card numbers are never shared. However, it’s vital that you secure this personal vault. Protect it with a robust passcode and enable biometric locks, such as fingerprint or facial recognition. This added layer of security ensures that your financial information remains safe, allowing you to enjoy your holiday shopping without fear.

05
Jingle all the way with Zero Liability

This festive season, let Zero Liability coverage keep your holiday cheer intact and free from worries. Financial institutions that issue Mastercard cards won’t hold you responsible for unauthorized transactions, as long as they are promptly reported and you’ve taken reasonable care to protect your card from loss or theft. As a Mastercard cardholder, Zero Liability covers your purchases made in-store, over the phone, online or via a mobile device, or even withdrawals from ATMs. With such protections, paying with your card brings more peace of mind than paying with cash or check.

As the holiday season jingles on, remember to be proactive about cybersecurity to make your shopping experience merry and bright. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa at a cozy café while hunting for last-minute gifts online or exploring local treasures in a new city, these tips will help you navigate the bustling holiday landscape safely. So deck the halls with cyber smarts, enjoy your festive shopping and travel safely.