Hey, Northern Colorado: we get that it's an exciting day. Cyber Monday has everyone in a tizzy today, grabbing those online deals, but is it worth getting hacked? No!

Nationwide, shoppers are expected to spend $7.8 billion dollars today, according to CNBC. Scammers know that this is one of those days we'll all be online, and they're looking for that weak link to pounce. There are ways where you can keep yourself protected digitally when shopping online today: that way, we can all participate in the fun.

1. Consider using PayPal or a similar program

PayPal's algorithm is centered around being that middleman for you, and is a way to keep your information safe. The cost to join is free, but PayPal helps you to avoid giving your information directly to a site you may not trust-- it's like a digital gatekeeper. You can sign up for a free account here.

2. Use your credit card

Thanks to CNBC, this is a tip we weren't aware was so important. Credit card funds don't come directly from your account, giving you more time for banks to reimburse stolen funds if that situation presents itself. Apple Pay is also apparently a great way to shop, "since it sends a temporary one-time credit card number to the vendor[,] making it a highly secure way to fight fraud." (CNBC)

3. Make sure you're on a secure site

It's easier than you think to make sure a website is secure enough to enter your personal information into: all you have to do is look for the 'https'. This is up in your navigation bar, where you see the website URL. If the 'http' doesn't have an 's' at the end, it's not secure and you shouldn't put your financial information in. Here's what it looks like:

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Look, there are so many things that I could tell you about staying safe while shopping online, but the biggest thing is to just use your common sense: if something doesn't feel right, maybe put away the credit card and go purchase your deal in-store. You won't regret it.

Happy shopping!

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