Six Tech Tips To Help You Master Shopping On Cyber Monday

A major international shopping event in the world of e-commerce, Cyber Monday is just around the corner – hot on the heels of Black Friday. And online shoppers will undoubtedly be gearing up already.

But as with any digital operation today, the constantly evolving nature of the internet, coupled with an ever-expanding raft of online communications, means that keeping track of different opportunities can be difficult. And as the cyber landscape becomes more volatile than ever, security risks rise to the top of the agenda too.

Here, Jamie Durham, managing director at Systemwork, offers six crucial tips to help streamline the shopping experience…

1. Leverage technology to compare prices

When you find an item in stock at an online retailer, it can be tempting to just add it to your basket and secure the transaction as quickly and headache-free as possible. But with a bunch of extensions that can scour the internet for the best deal on your behalf, you can check that you’re paying the lowest price possible for each item on your wish list.

Once the plug-in has been added to your browser, it automatically compares data across a host of websites, providing discounts and alerts to save precious time and money.

2. Abandon your purchase prior to the day

Have you ever noticed how many check out reminders you get from online stores when you bail on a virtual shopping basket? The same thing happens on Cyber Monday.

Because most of these emails are automated follow-ups, the likelihood is, adding your favourite items to your basket on various sites and abandoning them soon after will trigger a discount code before the big day. Of course, this won’t work with every brand, but it’s definitely worth a try to save on spend.

3. Stack discount codes where possible

In the online word, coupon or code stacking means you can use one or more offer per order. This allows shoppers to receive a bigger discount on a single product in the same transaction.

So, how do you do it successfully? It’s important to note that not all brands allow the use of multiple discounts. However, if permitted, you will see the option to enter various codes at the checkout. With the right strategy – for example, by stacking in the most optimised order – you can generate significant savings. And the more you practice, the more masterful you’ll be!

4. Shop using secure connections

It’s no secret that cyber-attacks are increasing not only in size, but in sophistication too. And with so many shoppers desperate to scope out the best deals on Cyber Monday, it’s often the case that perpetrators are out in full force to take advantage.



5. Ensure devices are up-to-date

A phone, tablet, or laptop that isn’t protected by the best antivirus software is more likely to be infected with malicious malware – leaving your sensitive data exposed to hackers.

Ensuring internet-facing apps and operating systems are updated to the latest versions will protect any data that has been entered or transmitted using that device – from personally identifiable information, such as your address and phone number, to bank details and more.

6. Only use reputable retailers

The bottom line is, always trust your gut instinct. Remember – if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. To be safe, it’s always best to stick with brands you know and trust, or divert to Trust Pilot if you ever need reassurance from fellow online users. It’s also important to stay away from unknown links, email addresses, and webpages.

There’s no bargain on the planet worth compromising your safety and security. And being mindful of where you shop, as well as how, is one of the key ways to improve lines of defence.

Following these tips will help you remain vigilant shopping online throughout Cyber Monday and beyond, and secure the best deals to protect those precious pounds.

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