SOUTH CAROLINA (WCIV) – This Cyber Monday is expected to see a large online shopper presence and great deals with discounts averaging 30% off, according to a Reuters study.
The National Retail Federation reported that sales are expected to rise more than 3% from last year, to $957 billion.
Forbes also shows that holiday shoppers would rather browse from the comfort of their homes than wait in line, leading to an increase in the number of Cyber Monday customers.
Pamela Sams, a financial advisor at Jackson Sams Wealth Strategies, said that while costs may be low, investors still avoid overdoing it and make sure to create a budget before sailing.
“But set a budget at this time of year. You know, when you buy food for Christmas gifts, Cyber Monday goes by and gives you a lot of deals and you think you want them,” Sams said. “I think Amazon has something where it says things you didn’t know you wanted, but if you end up following that rule, you can go astray in terms of budget. “
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But an increase in online grocery shopping can also lead to a greater threat of scams. Experts said this season they’ve found that many shoppers are struggling with identity theft, stealing credit card information or paying for parts that never show up. .
Scammers can also create fake websites to imitate a website, creating a trail to collect data from buyers. Financial advisors have said that when it comes to buying groceries online, shoppers should make sure to check each and every step of the process. .
“Hackers are in a position this time of year, and their unsavory practice is that when you’re shopping for groceries online, you need to make sure you’re accessing a secure site,” Sams continued. “It would be HTTPS, which means it’s a secure site. There are tons of fake sites out there, don’t click on anything you’re not comfortable with. “
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There are deals going on right here in the Lowcountry.
The Gaillard Centre is offering tickets at a 50% discount thanks to the code “Merci23” which ends on Monday evening at 11:59 pm. The South Carolina Aquarium is offering $30 off at any club that lists the code “23cyber. “