Galveston County, TX

Cyber Monday Safety Tips from the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management

As Cyber Monday approaches, Galveston County Office of Emergency Management reminds residents to prioritize safety while enjoying online shopping. Follow these tips to protect your personal information and make the most of the holiday deals.

1. Shop Securely
Only shop on trusted websites with secure connections. Look for "https://" in the web address, and avoid clicking on links from unsolicited emails or pop-up ads.

2. Protect Your Payment Information
Use credit cards or payment platforms that offer fraud protection. Avoid using debit cards for online purchases to minimize exposure to your personal accounts.

3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
For added security, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your shopping accounts and email. This creates an extra layer of protection in case of a password breach.

4. Beware of Scams
Watch out for deals that seem too good to be true or sellers asking for unusual payment methods, such as gift cards or wire transfers. Research unfamiliar retailers before making a purchase.

5. Monitor Your Accounts
Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges. Report any suspicious activity immediately.

6. Avoid Public Wi-Fi
If possible, avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi networks. Use a personal hotspot or wait until you're on a secure, private network.