The holiday season is a time for celebration, gift-giving, and family gatherings, but it can also bring unexpected challenges. As we prepare for the festivities, it’s important to stay mindful of our safety, especially when it comes to finances and shopping. At Heritage Bank, your safety and security are our top priorities, so we’ve put together a few tips to help you stay safe this holiday season.
Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
During the busy holiday season, it’s easy to lose track of your spending. Keep an eye on your bank accounts for any unusual activity. With increased transactions, fraudsters may take advantage of the season to slip in unauthorized charges. If you spot anything suspicious, contact your bank immediately. Heritage Bank’s online and mobile banking services make it easy to monitor your accounts from anywhere, anytime.
Be Cautious with Online Shopping
While shopping online is convenient, it can also expose you to scams. Stick to trusted websites and avoid clicking on unsolicited emails or ads offering unbelievable deals. Always look for secure websites with "https" in the URL and avoid saving your credit card information on websites. Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and consider using a secure payment method, like a credit card, which may offer better fraud protection.
Watch Out for Phishing Scams
Scammers often use the holiday season to send out phishing emails or texts pretending to be from reputable companies. Be wary of any emails asking for your personal or financial information, and don’t click on suspicious links. If something feels off, it’s better to verify by contacting the company directly through their official website or phone number.
Use Mobile Payments and Contactless Options
When you’re out shopping, consider using mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, which offer added security by keeping your card information private. Many stores also offer contactless payment methods, which allow you to pay without handing over your card or touching a keypad, reducing the risk of theft.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Whether shopping in stores or using an ATM, always be aware of your surroundings. Keep your wallet or purse secure, and never leave your belongings unattended, even for a moment. When using an ATM, choose one in a well-lit, busy area, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Limit How Much You Carry
With holiday crowds and busy stores, it's easy to misplace things. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or multiple credit cards while shopping. Only bring what you need and consider using a small crossbody bag or front pocket to keep your valuables safe. If you're using a debit card, opt for credit when possible, to add an extra layer of security.
Secure Your Holiday Travels
If you're traveling during the holiday season, notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent your card from being flagged for unusual activity. Carry a backup form of payment in case of emergencies and ensure you have copies of important documents like your passport or driver’s license. Use hotel safes for valuables and avoid sharing your travel plans on social media to keep your home and belongings secure while you're away.
Set Spending Alerts
Many banks, including Heritage Bank, offer spending alerts that notify you of any significant purchases or unusual activity on your accounts. These alerts can help you catch potential fraud early and keep your spending within your holiday budget. Setting spending limits on your cards can also prevent overspending.
Plan for Holiday Shopping
Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, holiday shopping can get overwhelming. Planning ahead and sticking to a budget can help you avoid financial stress. Be mindful of holiday scams, like fake charities and too-good-to-be-true deals, and always verify the legitimacy of offers before making a purchase.
At Heritage Bank, we’re committed to helping you protect your finances, especially during the holiday season. By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can enjoy a more safe and secure holiday season with less unexpected surprises. If you have any questions or concerns about your account security, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
From all of us at Heritage Bank, we wish you a safe, happy, and joyful holiday season!
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