Online shopping offers convenience during the holiday rush, but it also presents opportunities for hackers to steal your identity and commit fraud. Keep finances secure with these tips:

1. Use credit cards instead of debit cards

Credit cards offer better fraud protection, quickly reversing charges and initiating investigations in fraud cases. Debit card fraud, however, can tie up your funds for weeks or even months as your bank investigates.

2. Stick to secure sites

Ensure the sites you shop on are secure. Look for “https” in the URL, indicating encryption and data safety. Reputable shopping sites will have the “s” for security.

3. Set up account notifications

Activate alerts from your bank or credit card company to receive real-time warnings about suspicious activity or low balances. Staying informed helps you act quickly if there’s a problem.

4. Beware of deals that are too good to be true

Scammers exploit the holiday season with fake offers and phishing attempts. Avoid opening emails from unknown senders or clicking links from unfamiliar websites. If you receive a message claiming to be from your bank about account issues, call the bank directly rather than providing information online.

5. Regularly monitor your accounts

Review your bank and credit card statements often. If you notice any unauthorized transactions promptly, report them immediately and put your account on hold until the matter is resolved.