Today is Cyber Monday

Today is Cyber Monday, the day people take to the Internet to find those online holiday gift deals.

Cyber Monday has become one of the top shopping days of the year but like so much else in 2021, not all deals will be just on Cyber Monday.

Retail experts predict that many online shopping activities and special holiday sales started as early as Halloween and may continue throughout the holiday season.

But online shopping – even on Cyber Monday – has its risks and the Better Business Bureau in Atlanta has some tips to help you shop safely online this year.

Beware of false advertising and phony websites. If a company is selling the hottest item of the year at a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Shop with trustworthy sellers on secure sites only.

Secure web addresses begin with HTTPS:// and not just HTTP://.

Never put personal or credit card information in forms on non-secure web pages.

Keep your antivirus software up to date. It will help you avoid non-secure websites and pop-up phishing scams and help keep your personal information safe.

Price check before you buy. Do your homework by comparing prices.

Take advantage of rewards and loyalty programs. Check your credit card rewards program for special point offers that could add up on Cyber Monday and throughout the holidays.

Use your credit card. It’s always best to make online purchases with your credit card. If any shady charges turn up later, you will be able to contest them through your credit card company. Debit cards don’t offer this same protection.

Understand return policies.

For more advice, you can read BBB’s tips on online shopping, and if you’ve spotted an online scam, report it to BBB ScamTracker.