Ready, set, go! The holiday online shopping frenzy starts now. Holiday shopping scams in 2025 are a significant problem, with scams starting earlier and becoming more sophisticated, driven by factors like increased online shopping and AI technology. A global report indicates that over half of adults worldwide have encountered a scam, with 23% losing money. Common threats include fake e-commerce sites, non-delivery/non-payment schemes, and phishing attempts via email or text that exploit popular deals and events.
For an enjoyable and scam-free experience, check out these 12 Days Of Safe Online Shopping tips from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
Day 1
The holiday online shopping experience is upon us. Before you begin, update software on your device to make sure you’re protected from the latest threats. Learn more here about the benefits of keeping your software updated >
Day 2
Before diving into holiday sales online, update your shopping passwords—16+ characters, random, and unique for each account! Three tips for strong password from CISA >
Day 3
Overwhelmed by trying to remember your passwords? Let a password manager do it for you! Set one up today and shop with ease knowing strong passwords are protecting your accounts. Here’s Forbes top password managers >
Day 4
Make your holiday online shopping safer by using MFA on your accounts. It’s a quick second step to prove it’s you when logging in—like entering a code or your fingerprint. Learn more about MFA >
Day 5
During the holiday shopping season, criminals send messages that look like they’re from your favorite store—hoping to steal your money or information. If a message looks suspicious, think twice!
Day 6
We know you’re in a hurry over the holidays, but never click links or download attachments from unexpected messages. Doing that could infect your device with viruses or malicious software and give scammers access to your private information.
Day 7
This holiday season, look out for messages asking for information–such as to verify your delivery address or confirm your purchase. It may be a scammer trying to trick you into giving them information.
Day 8
Got an email that feels a little off? Don’t panic—just report it and delete it! Do NOT reply or click on any attachments or links—not even those unsubscribe buttons. Shop safely this holiday season and protect yourself from phishing scams! Get more tips from the FTC >
Day 9
When buying gifts online, look for “https” at the beginning of the website address. Also ensure the nearby padlock icon is locked. This shows your info is encrypted—which reputable merchants always do. Read more about the HTTPS-only standard >
Day 10
Before shopping online at a business that’s new to you, verify it’s legitimate! Check the Better Business Bureau for accreditation, read customer reviews, and research any complaints. Go to BBB now >
Day 11
While laws limit your liability for fraudulent credit card charges, your debit card may not give you the same level of protection. Unauthorized charges could leave you with insufficient funds for other bills. Stay safe and consider using a credit card for extra security this holiday season! The Heritage Valley Visa Credit Card features a rate as low as 10.90% and you can earn rewrads for every dollar you spend! Apply today >
Day 12
When you’re busy shopping, it’s easy to miss a charge. Check your credit card and bank accounts regularly. If you see unauthorized charges, reach out to us immediately. If you aren’t using the highly rated Heritage Valley mobile app, download today! It’s the best way to check your transactions on the go. You can also set up multiple balance and transaction alerts to your accounts and can choose if you want to be notified by text, email, in-app message, or a combination of the three. Download the app >
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