It looks like Black Friday isn’t the only shopping day expanding its reach earlier this year. Cyber Monday, generally the largest shopping day for Web retailers, with sales targeting those who don’t wish to brave the crowds and lines following Thanksgiving, is spanning several days this year for many merchants. According to the National Retail Federation, more than 97 percent of online retailers will begin holiday discounts during Thanksgiving weekend, compared to 90 percent who started before Cyber Monday last year. About half of those starting Cyber Monday early will be offering online specials on Thanksgiving Day.

“Consumers are increasingly shopping and buying both online and in-store this holiday season,” Vicki Cantrell, executive director of Shop.org, said. “Savvy retailers are getting the word out to customers about in-store offers and events using online vehicles such as Facebook, email, Twitter and mobile alerts.

“Now, more than ever retailers are integrating their digital and in-store promotion, working to create that seamless shopping experience that they know customers demand and expect.”

Business Insider cautions customers to be wary of Cyber Monday scammers, looking to take advantage of shoppers who are looking for deals online. Consumers should look for the “http” at the beginning of any URL, which signifies the site is secure and financial information is relatively safe.

Samantha Lile

Samantha Lile is a 2002 Missouri State University graduate of journalism and mass media. She has served as a reporter and editor for various newspapers throughout her journalism career. She made the leap into writing full-time after working for a major financial institution since 2000.

Because of her banking background, Samantha is knowledgeable in finance reporting, but is also strong in commentaries, personal profiles, youth studies, horticulture, history and entertainment-related works.

Samantha lives in Ozark, Mo. with her husband of nine years, four dogs and two cats.

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