Over the Christmas season, people make close to half of all purchases online with phones, tablets, or computers. However, there are problems to be aware of in the digital shopping mall.

Both the Winkler and Morden police departments posted warnings to their social media accounts earlier this week advising people to be aware that fake apps are out there.

"You want to be sure what you're doing and where you're giving your credit card out," said Morden police chief, Brad Neduzak.

"There are these scams out there that are getting people to supply their credit card numbers, and then they're being used fraudulently."

The fake apps are downloaded from app stores or through links sent via email. They might pretend to be popular companies, which can make it difficult to differentiate between what's real and what's a scam.

Fortunately, there are ways to protect your self from being a victim, and Constable Brad Goertzen from the Winkler police department shared some of those tips.

"When downloading an app, always check the reviews," said Goertzen. "Consider a lack of reviews or negative reviews to be a big red flag. Another way to keep yourself from downloading fictitious apps is if you get an email suggesting that you download an app, never click on a link in an email to download the new app. Always go to the website of the retailer to get a legitimate app."

This time of year is the "ultimate time" for people to defraud others, Neduzak suggested. As purchasing goes up, there will be those who try to steal from people, betting they won't take the time to research the retail apps they use.

If an app or email you've received seems suspicious, call the Winkler, Morden, or Altona police before doing anything with it.