With millions of dollars exchanging hands online over the next few days, protecting yourself now could save you from spending or donating more than you originally planned. According to Adobe Analytics data, more than $13.1 billion is spent on Cyber Monday, with that number growing to over $41 billion during Cyber Week (Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday). Giving Tuesday’s online component continues to grow every year as well, with over $1 billion of the $3.6 billion donated coming through digitally.
With the increase of e-commerce comes the opportunity for scammers to walk off with your money. The Federal Trade Commission reported that about a third of Americans experienced some kind of online shopping scam in 2024, amounting to $434.4 million. It has led the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to warn consumers to be aware of such scams by encouraging them to do their research ahead of time, resist high-pressure tactics, and use only trustworthy websites. FTS Technology Group owner Ryan Hoffmann says using two-factor authentication and unique passwords are other ways you can protect yourself online.
DATCP received 1,513 telemarketing-related complaints and 618 identity theft complaints in 2024, which placed them second and fourth respectively in the top ten complaints filed at the agency last year. You can find more tips from DATCP below.
