Shop Smart, Not Spontaneous.

Holiday deals come fast, and it’s easy to get swept up in “limited-time” offers. Before you click “Buy Now,” pause and ask yourself:

• Do I really need it, or am I reacting to the sale?
• Can I afford it without dipping into savings?
• Will this purchase bring value beyond the holiday season?

A short moment of mindfulness can help you stay within your budget and avoid post-holiday regret.

Use Secure Payment Methods

Stick to trusted retailers and websites that use HTTPS (look for the lock symbol in your browser). Avoid saving your card information on multiple sites, and use a credit or debit card with fraud protection for extra peace of mind.

With ALLIANCE Credit Union debit and credit cards, you can monitor your transactions 24/7 and receive instant alerts for suspicious activity so you always know what’s happening with your money.

Stay Alert for Scams

Scammers love to take advantage of shopping season. Keep an eye out for:

• Fake websites or lookalike retailers offering deals that seem “too good to be true.”
• Phishing emails or texts pretending to be from major stores or delivery services.
• Social media ads that redirect you to fraudulent checkout pages.

If you receive a message that seems suspicious, don’t click any links. Instead, go directly to the retailer’s official website to verify the offer.

Set a Spending Limit—and Stick to It

Set a realistic budget before the weekend hits. Decide how much you can comfortably spend on gifts, travel, or big-ticket items—and track as you go. Consider moving your “spending money” into a separate checking account or prepaid card to avoid dipping into your main funds.

Bonus Tip: Protect Yourself Beyond the Holidays

Cyber safety isn’t just for November, it’s a year-round priority. Keep your accounts secure by:

• Updating your passwords regularly.
• Enabling transaction alerts with ALLIANCE’s digital banking tools.
• Staying updated with ALLIANCE banking alerts through our social media and website.

These simple habits help you stay one step ahead of scammers and maintain peace of mind long after Cyber Monday. Remember, ALLIANCE will never call or text asking for your PIN, passwords, account numbers, or verification codes. If you receive a suspicious message, hang up or delete it immediately.

Wrap-Up

The holidays are about giving—not stressing. By planning ahead and shopping safely, you can enjoy the best deals of the season without putting your finances at risk.
At ALLIANCE Credit Union, we’re here to help you spend smarter, save more, and stay protected every step of the way.

Stay safe. Spend smart. Enjoy the season!