The holidays bring that mix of joy, chaos, and spending that somehow happens all at once. Between late-night online shopping, travel planning, and snapping selfies by twinkling lights, it’s easy to forget one important thing your digital safety.
While we’re searching for deals, hackers are searching for opportunities. Scammers love the holiday season because our guard drops when we’re juggling too much. But that doesn’t mean you need to panic. It just means you need a plan. And a little awareness goes a long way.
Let’s unwrap a few ways to protect your money and identity this holiday season while still enjoying the comfort and convenience that technology brings.
Shopping Smart (Without Losing Your Cool or Your Card Info)
Holiday deals are everywhere in your inbox, text messages, and those tempting pop-up ads that promise “One Day Only!” bargains. But before you click “Buy Now,” stop and check for a few red flags.
If a deal looks too good to be true, it usually is.
Shop directly from trusted websites or apps not from random links or ads on social media. You’d be surprised how real fake sites can look these days. Look for https:// in the address bar and check the spelling. “Amaz0n” and “Walmartt” might look close enough at a glance, but they’re far from safe.
Using a credit card or mobile wallet (like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay) adds an extra layer of protection since they mask your card number during transactions. If something goes wrong, it’s easier to dispute a credit card charge than to get back money from your debit card.
Bonus tip: Avoid saving your payment info on every site. It’s convenient, but not secure. Keep your money where it belongs in your account.
Travel Tech and the “Free Wi-Fi” Trap
Whether you’re visiting family or taking that much-needed getaway, travel and technology are best friends until they’re not. Airports, hotels, and coffee shops all offer free Wi-Fi, and while that sounds great, it’s also a playground for cyber snoopers.
If you need to check your bank account or make a purchase while away, avoid using public Wi-Fi. Use your phone’s hotspot or a trusted VPN (virtual private network) to secure your connection.
Also, watch your luggage in a digital sense. Those digital boarding passes, hotel key apps, and car rental confirmations all store personal info. Delete or secure them once you’re done.
If you’re using a shared or public computer (even at a family member’s house), never click “Remember me.” Log out every time. The convenience isn’t worth the risk.
Smart Devices, Not Smart Targets
Our homes are smarter than ever voice assistants, smart TVs, doorbell cameras, and even Christmas lights that connect to Wi-Fi. But the more we connect, the more doors we open for cyber risks.
Before you plug in any new device, change the default password. Many people don’t, and that’s the easiest way for someone to break in digitally.
Update your devices regularly. Those little “software update” pop-ups aren’t just for fun; they patch security holes.
If you’re giving or receiving smart gifts this season like a smartwatch or a Wi-Fi camera help your loved one set it up safely. That’s the kind of “tech support” that matters.
Payment Apps, Zelle, and Venmo: The Convenience Factor
Sending money digitally is quick and easy, but it’s also a growing area for scams. Only send money to people you actually know. Scammers can impersonate friends or sellers. Once money leaves your account in these apps, it’s usually gone for good.
If you’re selling something online, never accept overpayments or checks that require “refunds.” And always double-check names and phone numbers in payment apps before hitting send.
Digital Gifting Without the Grinch
Gift cards make great last-minute presents, but scammers love them too. Buy gift cards directly from stores or reputable online retailers not from resale websites. Always keep the receipt in case you need to report a problem.
And if you’re sending digital gift cards, make sure the email is legitimate. A “free $100 Amazon card” is usually bait for something worse.
While You’re Away: Protecting Home Tech and Accounts
Before you travel, secure your home’s digital life the same way you lock your doors.
- Turn off unused devices.
- Set up motion alerts for smart cameras.
- Avoid posting real-time travel updates on social media. (Announcing “We’re gone all week!” can attract more than just likes.)
If you have a smart thermostat or light system, set them to make your home look occupied. Tech can keep you safe when used wisely.
Technology Isn’t the Enemy, Carelessness Is
Technology isn’t out to get you. It’s how we use it that makes the difference. The best protection isn’t fear it’s awareness.
Some people like to keep their cards locked until they’re ready to use them. Others use mobile wallets for tap-and-go payments because they never expose the card number.
Whichever way you go, keep your eyes open. Fraud happens quietly, and awareness makes it loud.
Wrapping It All Up
The holiday season is full of magic, but it’s also full of distractions and that’s when mistakes happen. Stay alert, protect your information, and don’t let digital stress steal your holiday joy.
Technology can make your season easier, brighter, and safer as long as you stay a step ahead.
So before you click, tap, or share, pause for a second. Make sure your holiday cheer doesn’t come with a side of cyber chaos.
You’ve got this.