Tips for a safe and enjoyable holiday season

To start your holiday season, here are some highlights from our blogs with tips for shopping safely – both in the store and online – for keeping your home and property safe and for protecting your family during the holidays. 

With the holiday season fast approaching, many of us will be out shopping and enjoying the festivities. In this joyous atmosphere, we also need to be aware of our surroundings and develop a safe routine because unscrupulous individuals may be out to take advantage of our festive mood.

Tips to reduce risk when shopping online

Cyber Monday, the Monday after Thanksgiving, has become the biggest online retail shopping day of the year. In 2012, Cyber Monday shoppers racked up $1.46 billion in sales, a new online record, according to comScore. Because of the explosive growth each year in online holiday sales, shoppers need to be extremely diligent in making digital purchases. Scammers with fake websites and emails are lurking out there to separate you from your money. Your identity is also at risk.

Choose your card wisely to protect your money
Many people find it convenient to use credit or debit cards rather than carry cash or write checks for each purchase. Recent headlines concerning account information breaches should be of concern to card users. Important differences between credit cards and debit cards may affect your decision about which to use for your purchases.

‘Tis the season for giving…and insuring
The holidays provide us with good reasons for presenting special – and often valuable – gifts to our loved ones. In the excitement of surprising someone with a gift that makes a big impression, remember that properly insuring expensive gifts can bring you peace and joy long after the holiday season is over.

A gift of prevention keeps the holiday memorable
You want your holidays to be memorable, but for the right reasons. Help ensure your holiday is safe and happy by observing these simple – but essential – tips to help safeguard your loved ones and belongings.