The Christmas and New Year festive season is here, bringing the excitement of gift-sharing and irresistible online deals.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, scammers are also waiting to pounce on unsuspecting shoppers.
Cyber attacks, including phishing, identity and password theft, ransomware, and spoofing, are rife as people rush to make last-minute purchases.
To ensure your holiday shopping spree remains joyful and scam-free, here are five foolproof ways to stay safe while shopping online.
A total of 3,804 actual incidents were reported to the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) between 2019 and 2023. The figures show that there has been a growing number of cyber incidents in the country.
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1. Stick to Trusted Websites
When shopping online, always prioritise reputable websites.
Big names like Jumia, Amazon, and local e-commerce platforms with established credibility are your best bet.
Before making a purchase, ensure the website is secure by checking for “https” and a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. These small details can save you from big losses.
2. Don’t Fall for Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals
That flashy ad promising the latest smartphone at 90% off? Think twice before clicking.
Scammers use absurdly low prices to lure shoppers into their traps.
If a deal feels too good to be true, it probably is. Compare prices across multiple platforms to confirm if the discount is genuine.
3. Verify Social Media Sellers
Social media platforms have become a hotspot for shopping, but not all vendors are trustworthy.
Before buying from a page or profile, check their reviews, ratings, and customer feedback.
Look for signs of legitimacy, such as clear contact information and active engagement with customers.
If their comment section is disabled or complaints abound, steer clear.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods
Avoid direct bank transfers to unknown sellers, as recovering your money in case of fraud is nearly impossible.
Instead, use secure payment options like mobile money or credit/debit cards, which often provide dispute resolution services. These methods offer an added layer of protection and peace of mind.
5. Be Cautious of Suspicious Links
Scammers often send phishing emails or text messages with links claiming to offer exclusive discounts.
Clicking these links can expose your personal and financial information.
Always go directly to the retailer’s website instead of interacting with unsolicited messages.
Shop Smart and Stress-Free
The festive season is a time to spread cheer and not fall victim to scams.
By staying alert and following these tips, you can enjoy a hassle-free online shopping experience. Treat yourself and your loved ones with confidence, knowing your purchases are safe and secure.
This holiday season, let your focus be on joy and celebrations, not on recovering from online shopping mishaps!
Among others, the CSA has provided platforms for cyberattack victims to make formal complaints for technical support.
These include:
Email:report@csa.gov.gh
Call:292
SMS: 292
Whatsapp: 0501603111
Mobile App : CSA GHANA