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Cyber shoppers beware: Tips to avoid scams this holiday shopping season

Forbes broke down what to look for when shopping online.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — According to the Federal Trade Commission, 2.4 million people reported fraud in 2022. They lost a combined $8.8 billion to those scammers.

Federal data shows online scams are the second most prevalent type of fraud in the nation. 

WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.

When doing holiday shopping, Forbes has some warning signs to look for in order to avoid the digital Grinch stealing your Christmas.

Here are five tips:

It's all in the beginning of the site

Only use websites that start with the five letters "https." The "s" denotes there's a secure communication on the site, thus ensuring a bit more protection.

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Scammers will hit up all angles

Our phone numbers are listed in so many unexpected places, so scamsters will be contacting shoppers directly through text, email and phone calls, trying to trick them into giving secure information when they shouldn't.

Depends on where you shop

Try not to use public Wi-Fi, especially if they aren't password protected. 

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Stay secure

Make sure all the security software on your devices is updated. Install anti-virus software to prevent malware from being installed. 

Passwords matter

Don't only choose strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. Also, enable multi-factor authentication to stop thieves in their tracks. 

In case you were curious, the most common scam people fall victim to is investment scams.

Contact Kia Murray at kmurray@wcnc.com and follow her on FacebookX and Instagram.

WCNC Charlotte's Where's The Money series is all about leveling the playing in the Carolinas by helping others and breaking down barriers. WCNC Charlotte doesn't want our viewers to be taken advantage of, so we’re here to help. Watch previous stories where we ask the question “Where’s the Money” in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.

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