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SSS urges everyone to stay vigilant when ordering and paying online with the upcoming
Black Friday spending spree of 29 November 2024 and the subsequent December Holiday festivities:
SAFETY MEASURES:
Stick to well-known, reputable retailers, especially for major purchases.
Check for the padlock symbol and “https” in the URL to ensure the website is secure.
Be cautious with unfamiliar sites - research reviews and customer feedback for lesser-known retailers- even if they look legitimate.
Shopping over public Wi-Fi can expose your information to hackers.
If you must shop on the go, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your connection.
Use unique, complex passwords for each online shopping account.
Consider using a password manager to safely store and manage passwords.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) when possible.
This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a secondary confirmation (e.g., a text code) when logging in.
Avoid clicking on promotional links sent via email or social media, especially if the deal seems too good to be true.
Buy directly from the retailer’s website.
Phishing scams often appear as emails or messages from trusted companies.
Double-check the sender’s email address, look for grammar errors, and hover over links to see the destination URL.
Avoid direct bank transfers or wire payments, which offer no recourse if something goes wrong.
Opt for credit cards or reputable online payment options like PayPal, which often offer buyer protection.
Many banks also offer virtual card numbers for online shopping, which can help protect your actual card information.
Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorised charges.
Promptly report any suspicious activity to your bank or card issuer.
Consider setting up transaction alerts with your bank to be notified of unusual charges in real-time.
While many retailers offer the option to save your card details, it is safer to enter your payment information each time you shop.
This reduces the risk of your card information being compromised if the retailer’s website is hacked.
Keep your computer, phone, and any other devices you use for shopping updated with the latest security patches and software updates.
Install antivirus software to help prevent malware infections.
A secure device is crucial for safe online shopping.
Be wary of sites that ask for excessive information (e.g., identity numbers, birthdates).
Only share what is necessary for the transaction.
Review the retailer’s privacy policy to understand how your data will be used and shared.
Reputable sites have transparent privacy policies.
Scammers lure shoppers with deals that sound unbelievable.
If a deal seems suspicious, research it or avoid it altogether.
Be particularly careful with “limited time” offers from lesser-known stores, as some scammers create fake urgency to rush you into buying.
Use legitimate price-tracking tools and websites to ensure you are getting a fair deal.
Sometimes, retailers inflate prices before a sale to create the illusion of a bigger discount.
Check for hidden costs like shipping, handling, and other fees, which can significantly increase the total.
Carefully read the retailer’s return policy, especially for items that may be difficult to return (like electronics).
Some stores have stricter policies for holiday or promotional sales.
Be aware of any restocking fees, deadlines, or specific conditions that apply to returns or exchanges.
Set shopping alerts on official retailer apps rather than third-party sites to avoid scams.
These alerts notify you of sales from trusted sources.
Shopping apps from reputable stores can sometimes offer additional security features, but make sure they are downloaded from official app stores.
Scammers sometimes pose as customer service agents, especially during peak shopping times.
Only use customer support numbers listed on the official website.
Be wary if someone asks for account details or payment information under the guise of "customer support."
For online shopping accounts, use a unique password and avoid reusing passwords from other websites.
If a retailer offers account recovery options, set them up to regain access quickly if your account is hacked.
After purchasing, keep track of your order with tracking numbers.
If your order does not arrive, contact the retailer directly, not through external links or emails.
Be cautious if you receive unexpected "delivery" notifications or requests for payment to release your package.
These are often phishing scams.
Limit the amount of data stored in your browser, like cookies and saved form information, to reduce the risk of data theft.
Clearing your cache and cookies after major online shopping sessions can help protect your personal information.
It remains critical to stay vigilant and, if necessary, a bit cautiously paranoid when making online payments.
Scammers and hackers constantly adapt their methods, taking advantage of emerging technologies to find new ways
to exploit unsuspecting individuals. As cybersecurity threats grow more sophisticated, it is essential to take proactive steps,
use secure payment methods, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly monitor your accounts.
Remember, staying one step ahead of these tactics can protect you from becoming a victim of theft,
fraud, or identity theft.
Your vigilance is your best defence.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.
This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:
Follow the link to our WhatsApp group:
"JOIN" to ensure you never miss our daily updates.
You will receive automatic notifications as soon as a new project is posted.
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
Follow us on Facebook to view our projects -
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.
POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv
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Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services
PO Box 15075 Lynn East
Pretoria, Gauteng 0039
South Africa
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