Shop smart this Black Friday and Cyber Monday - stay safe with Discovery Bank.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday present exceptional opportunities for savings and getting incredible deals. However, these busy shopping periods also attract increased cybercriminal activity, putting your personal and financial information at risk. It's important to remain vigilant because cybercriminals often target shoppers during these high-traffic events.

At Discovery Bank, we use advanced security technologies to safeguard your account. Your vigilance is equally essential to ensure a safe shopping experience.

Here's how to shop smart and stay safe:

Safety tips

1. Watch out for fake websites: Scammers create lookalike sites offering "too good to be true" deals. Before you buy:
   • Check that the URL starts with https and matches the official domain.
   • Look for trust seals and read reviews.
     Always shop with trusted, established retailers.
2. Be alert to phishing scams: Fraudulent emails or texts may claim there's a problem with your order or offer urgent discounts. These often link to fake sites designed to steal your data.
   • Please note: Discovery Bank will never send links by SMS. If you receive a message like this, verify its authenticity before taking any action.
3. Avoid card skimming: Criminals may tamper with card machines at ATMs or stores.
   • Inspect devices before use.
   • Whenever possible, use your Discovery Bank virtual card for enhanced security.
4. Don't trust all reviews: Fraudsters post fake positive reviews to push counterfeit products.
   • Review both positive and negative feedback to identify potential warning signs.
5. Beware of fake delivery notifications: Scammers send fake tracking updates or missed delivery alerts to trick you into clicking malicious links.
   • Always track parcels through official retailer channels and avoid clicking on uncalled-for links.
6. Watch out for fake shopping apps: Some apps mimic popular retailers but are designed to steal your login or payment info.
   • Download apps only from official app stores and verify the developer's credentials.
7. Avoid social media scams: Flash sales or giveaways on social platforms may be phishing traps.
   • Check the legitimacy of social media accounts before engaging with promotions or clicking on links.

Discovery Bank security features you can count on

• Card and device management: Easily manage your linked devices and subscriptions, pause or cancel cards, and set personalised spend limits for added control.
• Real-time fraud warnings: Our app proactively detects potentially risky behaviour, like banking while on a call, and alerts you to be extra cautious.
• In-app authentication: For every online purchase, our app displays merchant names and transaction amounts, ensuring transparency and security.
• Security Code: adds an extra layer of protection to any accounts you choose to hide. Once it's set up, those accounts stay hidden - and can only be accessed again by entering your Security Code. So you can choose which accounts to hide, and they'll remain invisible until you re-enter your Security Code. Read more

The bottom line

While the excitement of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals is understandable, it's essential to remain vigilant against cyber threats. By following these security tips and leveraging Discovery Bank's advanced protection features, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding shopping experience. Remember, safeguarding your personal information is always our top priority.

Read more on the Discovery Bank Blog

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