As the holiday season approaches, excitement is in the air — lights are twinkling, wish lists are being checked off, and there’s joy in every checkout line. Amid the flurry of festivities, it’s natural to get caught up in the moment. But as you shop, share, and celebrate, a little extra mindfulness can help protect your holiday cheer all season long.
Take a Pause
Fraudsters may send charming emails from “The North Pole” or “Santa’s Workshop” hoping to tap into your festive mood. Instead of following a link, pause to reflect. Is the email familiar? Is the sender verified? A simple reflection can help keep your identity safe and your inbox merry and bright.
Shop Smart and Secure
’Tis the season for online shopping. Before you check out, look for “https://” and the little padlock icon in your browser — your digital cues that a site is secure. When in doubt, skip the email links and head straight to your favorite store’s website yourself. It’s a simple way to keep your purchases protected.
Keep Your Connection Cozy
That peppermint mocha might be ringing your bell, but public Wi-Fi networks can be a bit like leaving your front door open. Avoid entering personal or payment details when you’re connected to public Wi-Fi — save those checkouts for home or a secure network.
Treasure Every Tap
Add your MHV Debit and Credit cards to your Digital Wallet for a safer way to spend this season. Tap-to-pay, fraud monitoring, and zero-liability protection keep your transactions secure—whether you’re shopping for gifts, groceries, or festive treats. Protect your purchases and your peace of mind all season long.
Lock It Up With a Strong Password
Give your mobile banking account its own unique password — one that’s hard to guess and doesn’t match your social media logins. This can help ensure only you can peek under the digital tree.
Keep Gifts in Good Hands
The season of giving shouldn’t come with surprise takings! Track your deliveries and, whenever possible, schedule them for when you or a family member will be home to greet them. It’s the easiest way to outsmart those pesky porch pirates and keep the magic intact.
At MHV, we’re here to help you keep your season full of joy — and your finances safe and sound.
Wishing you a warm, safe, and wonderful holiday season!
Other Snippet Series articles you may be interested in
- Holiday GiftsSnippet Series
Cut Clutter and Stay on Budget with These 5 Thoughtful Gift Ideas
Unsure where to begin with your holiday shopping? Gift your loved ones this season with these 5 thoughtful gift ideas. - Young woman moving into collegeSnippet Series
7 Ways to Get Your Child Ready for College
Have a child heading off to college? Use these quick tips to help them prepare. - Family doing back to school shoppingSnippet Series
Backpacks, Budgets, and a Better Way to Pay
Use these 5 simple tips make the most of back-to-school shopping with your MHV Debit Card.