Q: Is it safer to use my credit card or debit card for holiday shopping? And what else should I watch out for?

A: Both can be safe choices, but a few smart habits can make all the difference.

Between hunting for the perfect gifts, tracking packages and taking advantage of holiday deals, there's a lot happening this time of year. Unfortunately, scammers know that, too.

And they're getting pretty good at making their tricks look legitimate.

The good news? You don't have to be a technology expert to protect yourself. Knowing what to watch for, and taking a few extra seconds before clicking or buying, can make a big difference.

Here are a few questions worth asking before you check off that holiday shopping list.

"Is a credit card safer than a debit card?"

Both can be used safely, but there are some differences.

Credit cards generally offer stronger protections when shopping online. Because a debit card draws money directly from your checking account, fraudulent transactions can temporarily affect funds you need for everyday expenses.

If you prefer using your debit card, that's okay, too. Just make a habit of monitoring your transactions and reporting anything suspicious right away.

"Does tapping my card really make it safer?"

Yes! Contactless cards offer an additional layer of security compared to traditional magnetic-stripe transactions.

When you swipe a card, the terminal reads information stored on its magnetic stripe, which criminals can sometimes steal using devices called skimmers.

Tap-to-pay technology works differently, generating a unique security code for each transaction. That makes it much harder for someone to copy your card information.

Richwood Bank's new contactless debit cards offer this added protection, so when you have the option to tap instead of swipe, it's a smart choice.

"I found an unbelievable deal online. Should I be suspicious?"

Maybe! We've all spotted a great deal that seems almost too good to pass up.

But scammers create fake websites and social media advertisements that look remarkably similar to legitimate retailers.

Before purchasing, check the website address carefully, look for independent reviews and be cautious of unfamiliar sellers offering unusually steep discounts.

When in doubt, visit the retailer's official website directly rather than clicking an advertisement.

"I got a text saying my package couldn't be delivered. Is that a scam?"

It could be.

Scammers know we're expecting packages during the holidays, so they send fake delivery notifications claiming there's an address problem or an unpaid shipping fee.

Instead of clicking the link, visit the shipping company's official website or app and check your tracking information there.

"What if I think I've already been scammed?"

Don't panic, but don't wait.

Contact your bank immediately if you've shared financial information or noticed an unfamiliar transaction. Your banker can help you understand the next steps, whether that's securing your account, replacing a card or disputing a charge.

And don't let embarrassment keep you from asking for help. Scammers can be convincing, and anyone can be targeted.

The bottom line? A little caution goes a long way.

At Richwood Bank, we believe protecting your money is just as important as helping you manage it. Whether you have a question about a suspicious transaction or simply want to understand your options, we're here to help. n

Have a question for Ask the Banker? Stop by a Richwood Bank branch, give us a call or connect with one of our banking experts. We're always happy to have the conversation.