Published: November 22 2023
With the Black Friday and holiday shopping season approaching, it's important to stay safe online and protect your bank account from cybercriminals. In this article, we will provide you with tips to avoid becoming a victim of online scams and keep your finances secure.
Beware of Scammers on Online Marketplaces
One common fraud tactic involves targeting sellers on online marketplaces. The scammer pretends to be a buyer who offers to pay for the item and the shipping through a courier service. They request the seller's email address and then send a fake notification from a fraudulent courier company. If the seller clicks on the link in the email and enters their information, the scammers can gain access to their mobile banking app. To prevent this, it's important to be cautious of providing personal information and to verify any notifications or requests before taking any action.
Be Wary of Fake Websites and Webshops
Another common method used by cybercriminals is creating fake websites or webshops to trick unsuspecting shoppers. These websites often use deceptive tactics, such as using celebrity endorsements or extremely low prices to attract customers. When making online purchases, it's crucial to verify the legitimacy of the website by checking for contact information, reading the privacy policy and terms of service, and ensuring that the website uses secure payment methods. Additionally, it's advisable to only use the official website or mobile app of the retailer to make purchases.
Protect Yourself from Phishing Attempts
Phishing is a type of scam where criminals try to obtain sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details, by posing as a trustworthy entity. They often send emails or text messages that appear to be from a bank or other reputable institution, urging recipients to click on a link or provide personal information. To protect yourself from phishing attempts, always double-check the sender's email address or phone number, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never share confidential information through email or text unless you are absolutely certain of the recipient's identity.
Monitor Your Bank Account Activity
Regularly monitoring your bank account activity is essential to quickly identify any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity. Take advantage of the alerts and notifications offered by your bank to receive instant updates on any account changes or transactions. If you notice any discrepancies, contact your bank immediately to report the issue and take the necessary steps to secure your account. It's also a good practice to review your bank statements regularly to ensure that all transactions are legitimate.
Conclusion
As you prepare for the holiday shopping season, it's important to prioritize your online security. By following these tips and remaining vigilant, you can safeguard your bank account and enjoy a worry-free shopping experience. Remember to always stay informed, verify the legitimacy of websites and emails, and report any suspicious activities to your bank.
Questions & Answers
How can I protect my bank account during Black Friday in Budapest? To protect your bank account during Black Friday in Budapest, follow these rules:
- Be cautious and attentive when making online purchases.
- Avoid fake or cloned webshops.
- Be aware of fraudulent investment offers that seem too good to be true.
- Don't click on suspicious links in emails or messages.
- Use official websites or apps of the stores you want to shop from.
- Carefully review the privacy policy, terms and conditions, and contact information of webshops.
- If ordering from a new webshop, consider using cash on delivery rather than giving out your credit card information.
- Monitor your bank account regularly for any suspicious activity.
What are the common scams during Black Friday in Budapest? Some common scams during Black Friday in Budapest include:
- Targeting sellers on online marketplaces by posing as buyers and requesting their email address. Then, sending a fake notification from a courier company, leading the victim to a fraudulent website where they unknowingly provide their personal information.
- Purchasing ads on Google to promote fake websites that collect credit card information.
- Operating fake webshops that have poorly translated policies and limited contact information.
- Sending counterfeit or low-value products instead of the ones ordered when payment is made through credit cards.
- Making phone calls impersonating banks and warning customers about potential account risks.
Who are the most targeted victims of online scams in Budapest? According to a study by Erste Bank Hungary, the most targeted victims of online scams are middle-aged women living in Budapest and the surrounding area. They are often targeted because they frequently make purchases from webshops. Middle-aged men living in Budapest and its agglomeration are also at a higher risk of falling victim to scams due to their engagement with high-risk investment offers. Younger individuals, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, tend to be more resistant to scams and more cautious when making online transactions. Elderly individuals, on the other hand, are less vulnerable due to their limited online presence and skepticism towards online solutions.
What precautions do banks in Budapest take to prevent online scams during Black Friday? Banks in Budapest take several precautions to prevent online scams during Black Friday and other shopping periods. They:
- Monitor and detect fraudulent transactions on a quarterly basis.
- Delay the registration of mobile and internet banking on new devices for a certain period.
- Investigate suspicious activities and promptly notify customers of potential risks.
- Block and disable fraudulent applications and websites that attempt to gather customers' personal and banking information.
