The festive shopping season is nearly here! Black Friday and Cyber Monday can be exciting, with lots of deals to explore. At Derbyshire Community Bank, we want to guide our members to enjoy the season safely, especially online.
A little planning can make shopping easier and more controlled:
Make a list of items you’re interested in.
Decide on a spending limit in advance.
Compare prices from reputable sources before making purchases.
Online shopping is convenient but comes with potential risks. Some ways to stay safe include:
Using official websites or trusted apps.
Avoiding links from unexpected emails or messages.
Using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication on accounts.
BNPL services are popular during big sales, letting you spread payments over time. While convenient, there are some things to keep in mind:
Payments still need to be made on time to avoid late fees or interest.
Missing payments can affect your credit record.
Only use BNPL if you are confident you can meet the repayment schedule.
Remember, BNPL can be useful but also risky if not managed carefully.
Scammers are more active during big shopping events. Be aware of:
Emails or messages that look official but have spelling errors or ask for urgent action.
Deals that seem too good to be true.
Pop-ups or ads requesting card or personal details.
If something feels suspicious, check the official retailer website or customer service.
Check your accounts regularly for unusual activity.
Use secure connections when entering payment information.
Consider exploring local Derbyshire shops. Many offer seasonal deals, and it’s a great way to support our community.