With many major retailers announcing changes to their Black Friday operating hours, Cyber Monday online shopping sales are poised to be the highest since its formation 15 years ago. Stay healthy by shopping from home while getting top deals with these tips from Arvest.
Browse reputable websites
Protect your personal information by only shopping from reputable retailers. Confirm the online retailer’s phone number and physical address for further contact, and do not disclose personal information in response to pop-up ads or email messages from unconfirmed sources. Make sure to read fine print in the seller’s description and search the website for a privacy policy when browsing.
Shop savvy with coupons, price matching
Nearly 80 million shoppers took advantage of Cyber Monday deals last year. Follow major retailers on social media for special promotions and add yourself to email newsletters for coupon codes that may not be featured on websites. Ensure you are getting the best deal by using price comparison websites but take into consideration the retailer’s shipping cost and return policy.
Pay with a credit card
When shopping online, use your credit card as payment to be protected under the Fair Credit Billing Act. This allows consumers to dispute suspicious charges under certain circumstances and limits liability in the event a card is used fraudulently. Also, Arvest credit cards feature Visa’s Zero Liability* – you will not be held responsible for purchases made with your card if it is lost, stolen, or fraudulently used.
Boost purchasing power with rewards
Pay with your Arvest Flex Rewards credit card to earn rewards on your purchases. Arvest Flex Rewards can be redeemed for a gift card to your favorite restaurant, statement credit toward your next bill, or even deposited as cash into your checking account. Check with other credit card vendors for special reward programs to further boost your purchasing power.
Check transactions with online banking
Ensure your payment was processed correctly by checking your online banking after completing your purchase. With Arvest’s award-winning mobile banking app, Arvest Go, you can view both your debit card and credit card transactions in a centralized location. Also keep any email receipts or print confirmation codes until your merchandise has been delivered.
Support local businesses
Do not forget your local retailers. Many small businesses offer online shopping with both pick-up and delivery options and offer specialty or personalized products not available at larger retailers. Check with your local retailers for Cyber Monday deals following Small Business Saturday.
Online shopping can be just as fun as browsing your favorite store on Black Friday when keeping these safety tips in mind. Allow Arvest to help you shop confidently this Cyber Monday!
*A third-party site not operated by Arvest Bank, an FDIC-insured institution. Arvest Bank’s privacy policy and security practices do not apply to the site you are about to enter. Please review the third party’s privacy and security practices.