When making online payments during festive sales and Diwali offers, security should be your top priority. Always use secure networks – avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions and prefer your home network or trusted mobile data. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all payment apps and bank accounts for an extra layer of security.

Verify the website's SSL certificate (look for 'https://' and padlock icon) before entering card details. Never save your CVV, PIN, or OTP anywhere, and avoid sharing these with anyone – legitimate companies never ask for this information. Use biometric authentication when available, set spending limits on cards, and regularly monitor your transaction history through banking apps. Choose trusted payment gateways and always verify transaction details before confirming purchases.