Cyber Monday is one of the biggest days of the year for online sales. Take advantage of great deals by shopping with trusted retailers, verifying websites, and choosing sellers you can count on.
The Monday following Black Friday, known as Cyber Monday, is one of the top shopping days of the year.
What you'll learn:
- How to shop safely online during Cyber Monday and throughout the holiday season.
- Practical ways to avoid scams, fake webistes, and fraudulent sellers.
- Smart tips for protecting your money, personal information, and holiday deliveries.
Many retailers began offering online sales as early as Halloween, and the discounts will continue throughout the holiday season.
Shopping online is a great way to find savings and convenience, but it’s important to make sure your purchases are safe and secure. BBB offers tips to help you shop confidently this holiday season while protecting your personal information and hard-earned money.
BBB pro tips for a successful Cyber Monday
Spot fake websites and ads. Scammers mimic popular stores and promote deals that are too good to be true. Double-check web addresses, spelling, and contact information before you buy. Learn more about sponsored ad scams and look-a-like websites.
Shop with trustworthy sellers on secure sites only. Be wary of businesses you aren't familiar with. Check their BBB Business Profile on BBB.org, review the rating, and read customer reviews. In addition, be sure any web page you purchase from is secure. Secure web addresses begin with "HTTPS, "not just "HTTP." Never put personal or credit card information in forms on non-secure web pages.
Use secure checkout and payment methods. Pay with a credit card for added protection against fraud — never with wire transfers or prepaid debit cards.
Use price tools to avoid fake “deals.” Retailers may inflate “sale” prices, so use browser extensions or shopping apps to make sure you’re really saving. See more BBB tips on smart shopping online.
Be smart with Buy Now, Pay Later. Services like Afterpay or Affirm (BBB Accredited Businesses) can spread out costs, but keep track of installments. Missed payments may come with fees or affect your credit.
Protect your deliveries. Cyber Monday kicks off peak package season. Track shipments, consider secure pickup lockers, and require signatures for high-value items to reduce the risk of porch piracy.
Understand return policies. Online store policies may change for Cyber Monday offers. Read the fine print before you buy. Understand the return or exchange policy for the item you want to purchase. Be aware that stores may not allow returns for "final sale" or "closeout" items. Be sure to get gift receipts so the recipient can return or exchange the item if necessary.
Watch out for phishing scams. Busy schedules and increased purchases make it easier to miss – and fall victim to – a phishing scam. Look out for unsolicited emails, texts, calls, or letters. These messages may claim you have a gift waiting for you or that there is a problem with delivery – all you need to do is click on a link or give up your personal information. Avoid phishing scams by ignoring suspicious correspondence and calls from unfamiliar phone numbers.
Look for the BBB Seal. It's the Sign of a Better Business. Shop with confidence and peace of mind, avoid scams, and make smart purchase decisions on Cyber Monday and this holiday season by choosing businesses that prioritize trust and ethics in the marketplace. BBB Accredited Businesses adhere to the BBB Standards and will display the BBB Seal.
