As holiday shopping ramps up, state officials are reminding consumers to keep their spending in check and to stay alert for scams.

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza says it’s easy to get wrapped up in finding the perfect gifts, but overspending now can lead to serious financial stress after the holidays. National forecasts back that up — the National Retail Federation expects holiday sales to rise again this year, and a recent Debt.com survey found two-thirds of shoppers anticipate going into debt because of their holiday purchases.

To help keep budgets under control, experts recommend setting a spending limit before you shop and tracking what you buy. Don’t forget additional holiday expenses like decorations, travel, and gift exchanges. Shoppers are also encouraged to compare prices, take advantage of legitimate Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true. And starting early can help avoid costly last-minute shipping fees.

Consumers are also urged to watch for scams. Officials say to stick with well-known retailers, avoid suspicious links in emails and texts, and make sure any shopping site uses a secure “https” address. Strong passwords and using credit cards instead of debit cards can also help protect your financial information. Shoppers should monitor their bank accounts throughout the season and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Comptroller Mendoza says the holidays are stressful enough without unexpected debt or falling victim to a scam. More tips on smart shopping and the psychology behind holiday spending can be found in the latest episode of the “Mind Over Markdown” podcast.