Tip #1: Wait for the Big Sales

Seasoned online shoppers know November is the biggest online sale month of the year. While many e-commerce sites throw double-digit sales monthly (i.e., 9/9 on September 9), they typically save their top deals for 11/11, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.

Remember to browse the official websites of your favorite brands, too. From athletic apparel and casualwear to home goods and tech, you're sure to score big when shopping in any category throughout November.

Tip #2: Prepare a List and Determine Your Budget

Online shopping can be a minefield, especially when back-to-back sales are competing for your coin. Avoid overspending by preparing a list of what you want, budgeting, and researching. Here are a few other things you can do to improve your experience:

• Use the "wish list" feature. You can usually add items to your wish list by clicking a heart icon (or similar) somewhere on the product page. This feature acts like a “bookmark,” so you can easily save must-buys for later.
• Don’t buy something just because it’s on sale. Ask yourself if it’s truly an awesome purchase, or if the deal just seems too good to pass up.
• If you're shopping for gifts, have backups for each recipient. It's better to have thoughtful alternatives than to change course without a plan. That's how impulse buying happens.
• Start shopping early. The best deals usually go first, especially during the busy holiday season. Beat the rush by filling your cart before a sale starts, so all you have to do is check out when it does.
• Compare the prices of the same items on different platforms before checking out. Your favorite brand may have better offers on its official website than on its partner retailer's.
• Stay within budget. Treating yourself shouldn’t put you in debt. Prioritize the items you’ve been eyeing for a while, then save the rest for next year’s sales.

Tip #3: Look for Vouchers, Rewards, and Other Offers

Besides slashed prices, online stores usually offer free shipping, vouchers, and cashback during their sales. Some brands also give first-time buyers additional discounts upon signing up for their website or newsletter. Check if you can get deals when you use credit cards and other payment methods, too. Stack those promos!

Tip #4: Support Small Local Businesses

Small businesses can't beat the prices of big retailers, but they get points for having unique offerings. Those looking for one-of-a-kind gifts for their loved ones may have better luck with specialty stores.

Try Instagram shops for curated thrift finds, candles, or handmade trinkets and jewelry. Some local artists have online storefronts for art prints, pottery, handsewn bags, knits, and more. Their discounts won’t be as big, but whatever you get comes with a lot of heart.

Tip #5: Stick to Reputable Websites

Be wary of scam websites and seller profiles. They're not always easy to spot, but one telltale sign of a shady business is shockingly low prices. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

You can also look up brands online for more information, including customer reviews. Don't click on suspicious email links from unknown sources that promise "wild discounts" on items you've been searching for. If you're eager to buy a specific product, do a web search and look for official or reputable sources to shop from.

Tip #6: Use Secure Payment Methods

Some scams involve directing shoppers to payment pages that appear legitimate but are actually designed to harvest credit card details. Never provide payment details or personal information on a site whose URL begins with HTTP – always verify the URL starts with “HTTPS” (note: the ‘S’ is the critical letter to look for here) and includes a padlock or tuner icon in your browser’s address bar.

By staying aware of these common tactics, you can navigate the holiday shopping season with confidence and avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime. Remember, the best defense is a cautious and informed approach to every transaction.

Tip #7: Protect Your Personal Information

Besides using secure payment methods, there are some additional steps you can take to protect your details online:

• Use strong passwords and activate two-factor authentication (2FA). These add multiple layers of protection to your accounts and make them less vulnerable to security breaches.
• Avoid using unsecure and public Wi-Fi networks, especially when you're inputting sensitive information.
• Update your web browsers with the latest security patches and install reliable antivirus software on your devices.
• Use a permanent marker or stamp to block out the confidential details printed on packages upon delivery, like your full name, contact number, and address.

When shopping online, be on the lookout for sales, have a game plan, and practice constant vigilance. The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and connecting with loved ones — and for many, that includes the convenience and excitement of shopping online. However, the increase in digital activity also makes this a critical time to prioritize cybersecurity. Practicing secure online holiday shopping habits is essential to protect your financial and personal information from the growing threats posed by cybercriminals.

This holiday season, make cybersecurity part of your shopping checklist. By taking a proactive approach, you can focus on finding the perfect holiday deals without worrying about holiday steals.

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