TECH TOOLBELT
NOVEMBER 2025
Holiday Hacks: Safer Shopping Online
Prep for Black Friday, Cyber Monday & Gift Giving
The holidays are just around the corner, which means Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and online gift shopping are in full swing. At Curry Construction, safety is always top of mind—both on the jobsite and online. Shopping online is convenient, but it comes with risks. This month, we’re sharing tips to shop smarter and safer so your holiday deals don’t come with digital headaches.
Safe Shopping Tips
Online shopping can be quick and easy, but staying cautious is key:
- Stick to trusted retailers: Use websites you know and have shopped from before.
- Check for HTTPS: Look for the padlock icon in your browser—this means your connection is secure.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi: Use your home network or a secure hotspot when entering payment info.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Consider a password manager to keep accounts safe.
- Monitor bank accounts: Watch for unauthorized charges, especially during high-volume shopping periods.
Recognizing Fake Websites & Scams
Cybercriminals create fake sites to steal your money and personal information:
- Too-good-to-be-true deals: Extreme discounts on popular items can be a red flag.
- Check the URL: Fraudulent sites often use misspellings or extra words (e.g., “amaz0n-deals.com”).
- Look for contact info: Legitimate sites provide clear customer service options.
- Read reviews: Check for independent reviews outside the website before purchasing.
Best Browser Extensions for Deals & Coupons
Make your online shopping both safer and smarter:
- Honey or RetailMeNot: Automatically find coupon codes and discounts.
- Rakuten or Ibotta: Earn cashback on qualifying purchases.
- HTTPS Everywhere: Ensures your connection is secure on most websites.
- Ad blockers: Reduce risk from malicious ads and pop-ups.
Quick Builder’s Backup Checklist
- Shop from trusted retailers with secure connections
- Watch for fake websites and suspicious deals
- Use browser extensions for coupons and secure browsing
- Keep an eye on bank statements for unauthorized charges
Bottom line: Smart preparation can make online holiday shopping safe, efficient, and stress-free. By staying alert to scams, using security tools, and planning ahead, you’ll enjoy your holiday deals without putting your personal or financial information at risk.
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