Cyber ​​Monday: How to protect your wallet

CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) — Shops in Old Town Clovis experienced a bit of a lull Monday after a busy weekend.

“There’s something for everyone at every age, and I try to do that,” said Tanya Demanty, owner of Bauble and Thread in Old Town Clovis on Pollasky Avenue.

She has seen a slight increase in sales compared to last year and said she is grateful to people who are buying in small quantities.

“If you want to have the experience and just stroll around and enjoy the community and all the different entrepreneurs who have started their businesses, supporting them is a great idea,” Demanty said.

But large retailers are also expecting a busy Christmas business. This video shows an Amazon fulfillment center running at full speed on Cyber ​​Monday.

“We actually spend most of the year preparing for the Christmas season. But as you can see behind me, this is one of our busiest shopping days of the year, but it’s actually business as usual for us,” said Amazon Vice President of Global Workforce Health and Safety Sarah Rhoads.

According to Adobe Analytics, which tracks Internet shopping trends, consumers will spend more than $13 billion, up 6% from last year’s numbers.

But if you’re looking for deals, cybersecurity experts recommend taking precautions.

“All scams are based on fear. A lot of times it’s the fear of missing out, especially during the holiday season,” said Destin Watkins, a digital forensic analyst with the Clovis Police Department.

So when you receive an email, you may see a lot, but time is limited. So if you have to click on a link within the next hour, that’s a sign of a scam.”

Watkins recommends always using two-factor authentication when making online purchases.

He also suggests making your online purchases on a computer so you can get a complete overview of the site, and the type of card you use also plays a role.

“They will try to get you to buy something with a gift card or use your debit card. Once I have access to your debit card information, they can debit your bank account. Credit cards are always the best way to buy things online because there is at least some form of protection there,” Watkins said.

Economists expect peak online shopping hours on Monday to be between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., with about $16 million spent every minute.