Sleigh the Scammers This Holiday Season

With the holiday shopping season upon us, here’s a quick tip that might surprise you: your smartphone is actually one of the safest ways to shop online.

If you’re placing orders this week or next, here’s why it can be your best friend: 

📱 Phones have stronger built-in security.

iPhones and modern Androids automatically lock down apps, use encrypted storage, and verify websites behind the scenes. That means they’re generally less exposed to the kinds of malware or pop-ups that can show up on older (and even newer) computers.

🔐 Face ID, Touch ID, and autofill keep your info protected.

When your phone fills in your name, address, or credit card, that information is stored securely on the device and protected by your fingerprint or face. It reduces typing errors and helps keep your info out of risky websites.

🛒 Payment apps act like shields.

Using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal hides your actual credit card number from the store - especially helpful when shopping on smaller or unfamiliar websites. The store never sees your real card details.

💳 A quick reminder on payment safety:

• Best choice: Credit card (preferably via Apple Pay or Google Pay) - strongest fraud protection by law.

• Also good: PayPal - the store never sees any credit card number, so might the best choice for small/local retailers who might have lax IT security.

• Never online: Debit card - it takes money straight from your bank, and fraud can be a hassle to fix.

🎁 Bottom line: If you’re doing holiday shopping this week or next, try using your phone instead of your computer - and stick with a credit card or PayPal at checkout. It’s an easy way to keep your holidays joyful and secure.