As Black Friday approaches, consumers are reminded to spend responsibly.
With online shopping becoming the preferred way to buy, People’s Post reached out to tech specialist Grant Hinds on what consumers should look out for before making an online purchase.
He advised consumers to ensure that the websites they use are legitimate and reputable.
“Make sure that you are buying from reputable stores. A lot of people will either replicate those shops and take advantage of people who are buying impulsively. When you get a URL link via email or an SMS and it takes you to a website that appears to be Amazon, make sure that it is the legitimate website before you purchase anything.”
Hinds urged shoppers to set realistic budgets and carefully evaluate whether discounted items are genuine needs or impulse buys.
Virtual cards
Hinds recommends that consumers set up a virtual credit card. Virtual cards work by generating a unique, digital card number with a separate expiration date and CVV that is linked to your existing bank account or credit line.
This allows for secure online and in-app purchases because the virtual card’s details can be used instead of your physical cards, and you can set spending limits or even make the card single-use to limit risk if compromised.
“I would advise people to set up a virtual card for Black Friday and then close or delete the card once you have spent the money on the card,” he explained.
Shop on apps
Hinds also encouraged shoppers to compare prices, beware of misleading promotions, and prioritise financial well-being over the pressure to chase every deal.
“Shopping on apps like Takealot is more secure than shopping on the website. Don’t spend more than you can afford. Don’t get distracted and buy items that you don’t need. If you need a new dishwasher now is the time to buy it. But only set aside that budget.”
