Police issue advice on how to stay scam aware in the Boxing Day sales

If your thoughts are now turning to a bargain or two in the sales, take two minutes to read these top tips on how to shop safely, according to South Yorkshire Police.

1. If it looks too good to be true…it probably is

If there’s something you’ve had your eye on for a while, and you find an unbelievable deal….it’s probably just that, think before you buy.

Always check payment pages are secure and that you’re buying from a reputable site.

2. Pay the right way

If you’re going to take the plunge and make that purchase, there are ways to pay that give you an added layer of protection.

If you pay using a credit card and there’s a problem further down the line your provider will be able to help. There are also online options like PayPal which are worth considering.

3. Keep safe in the sales

your inbox is jam packed with special post-Christmas promotions that you just can’t resist, check that everything is as it should be before you commit.

• the sender’s email address should tally with the trusted organisation’s website address

• if there’s a sense of urgency to an email, for example the threat that unless you act immediately your account may be closed, delete and move on, don’t take the risk

• check any website you’re sent a link to is exactly as it should be, even a single character’s difference means a different website

• If there’s a request for personal information such as user name, password or bank details, think twice before you proceed

• didn’t subscribe to the company’s mailing list? If you weren't expecting to get an email from the company that appears to have sent it then something could be amiss, you can check if a deal is real by going directly to the website rather than using a link in an email

For more information on how to shop safely online visithttps://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/…/…/shop-safely-online