The Reno Police Department is reminding residents to use extra caution while shopping for holiday gifts online during Cyber Monday sales. The Department’s Financial & Computer Crimes Division reminds residents of the following online shopping tips: 

1. Research Retailers: Stick to reputable online retailers with a history of secure transactions. Check reviews and ensure the site is legitimate before making a purchase.

2. Beware of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure shoppers with unbelievable discounts to trick them into providing personal information.

3. Use a Secure Payment Method: Opt for credit cards or secure payment platforms. They offer better consumer protection and can help resolve disputes if any issues arise with your purchase.

4. Check Website Security: Ensure the website has a secure connection (https://) before entering any personal or payment information. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar.

5. Keep Confirmation Emails: Save order confirmations and receipts. They serve as proof of purchase and can be helpful in resolving issues with the retailer or your financial institution.

“The big thing is to use a credit card or other payment method that is protected in case of fraud while shopping online,” said Detective Eric Hague of the Financial & Computer Crimes Division. “We also see people purchasing gifts with cryptocurrency. That’s never a good idea because if you are scammed, it is nearly impossible to get your money back.” 

The Reno Police Department also encourages residents who think they could be a victim of a scam or other form of fraud to come forward and report fraud via a police report or by calling the non-emergency line at 775.334.2121. Oftentimes, fraud victims are unwilling to approach law enforcement to report the crime. 

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