Your Ultimate Holiday Shopping Security Checklist

The calendar has turned to December, the lights are up, and the holiday shopping rush is in full swing! While finding the perfect gifts brings cheer, this is also the time when online activity peaks, and unfortunately, so does the risk of scams and fraud.

Following up on our recent security reminders, we want to provide you with an essential, actionable security checklist to help you navigate the busy holiday season safely. Your awareness is your strongest line of defense against cybercriminals. Let’s make sure you have a secure and joyous December!

🛒 Keep your holiday shopping safe: a quick checklist

Protecting your personal and financial information while finding those perfect gifts is simpler than you think. Follow these four crucial steps:

• Verify the Seller (Trust the Lock!):

Before you enter any payment details, always ensure you are shopping on a reputable, well-known website. Look for the padlock icon and the address starting with https:// in your browser’s address bar. This confirms the connection is secure and encrypted.

• Use Strong, Unique Passwords:

The holidays are not the time to reuse passwords. Ensure every new shopping account, and especially your primary email, has a complex, unique password. We highly recommend using a trusted password manager to generate and store these secure credentials for you.

• Monitor Your Accounts:

The best defense is vigilance. Check your Mirastar account and all credit card statements frequently—ideally daily—for any unauthorized, small, or strange transactions. Scammers often start with a small “test” charge. If you spot anything suspicious, report it immediately.

• Be Skeptical of “Too Good to be True” Deals:

If a deal seems impossible, it probably is. Scammers use deep discounts and limited-time offers in misleading ads, texts, or emails to lure you to fake websites (phishing sites) designed purely to steal your credit card details or personal information. When in doubt, go directly to the retailer’s official website instead of clicking an external link.

🚫 A critical reminder from Mirastar: we will never ask you for this information

In the event you receive a text, call, or email, always remember:

Mirastar will NEVER contact you out of the blue to ask for your online banking credentials, passwords, PIN codes, or your Social Security Number.

If anyone asks for this sensitive information, it is a scam. Do not engage.

🚨 What to do if you spot something suspicious

If you encounter a fraud attempt, a phishing email, or notice an unauthorized charge while you’re shopping, remember these two steps:

1. Stop and Disengage: Do not click on links, reply to the message or text, or provide any information. Hang up the phone immediately.
2. Call Us Directly: If you are unsure about a transaction or encounter suspicious activity, please call us immediately using the number located on the back of your card or the official number on our Mirastar website.

Your financial security remains our highest priority. By working together and staying extra careful throughout December, we can ensure you have a secure and joyous holiday season.

Happy and safe shopping!