The festive season brings joy, celebrations, and online shopping sprees, but it also comes with increased cybersecurity risks. Cybercriminals see this busy time of year as an opportunity to exploit distracted users and businesses. Here are the key threats to be aware of and simple tips to keep yourself safe.
1. Phishing Scams
Phishing emails and messages skyrocket during the festive season. Fraudsters impersonate trusted brands, offering “too good to be true” discounts or claiming there’s an issue with your account.
What to do:
- Verify links by hovering over them before clicking.
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails; visit websites directly through your browser.
2. Fake Online Stores
Cybercriminals set up fake e-commerce websites to steal payment information or deliver counterfeit goods.
What to do:
- Shop only on trusted, reputable websites.
- Check for “https://” in the URL and look for store reviews before making a purchase.
3. Unsecured Public Wi-Fi
Shopping or banking over public Wi-Fi networks can expose your data to hackers using the same network.
What to do:
- Avoid making financial transactions over public Wi-Fi.
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure browsing.
4. Holiday-Themed Malware
Seasonal e-cards, downloads, or apps may hide malware designed to steal your data.
What to do:
- Avoid downloading attachments from unknown senders.
- Use reputable antivirus software to scan any downloaded files.
5. Social Media Scams
Fake contests, giveaways, or holiday deals may appear on your social media feed, luring you to provide personal or payment information.
What to do:
- Be sceptical of deals shared on social media, especially those requiring personal details.
- Report suspicious posts to the platform.
6. Increased Risk for Businesses
Businesses handling large amounts of customer data are prime targets during the festive rush. Ransomware attacks and data breaches can be devastating.
What to do:
- Ensure employees are trained to recognise phishing attempts.
- Regularly back up critical data and update cybersecurity software.
General Cybersecurity Tips
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
- Use Strong Passwords: Avoid using the same password across multiple platforms.
- Monitor Bank Statements: Look out for unauthorised transactions during and after the festive season.
- Update Your Software: Regular updates patch vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.
The festive season should be a time of joy, not stress over cybersecurity threats. By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can enjoy the holidays without falling victim to online scams or breaches. Stay safe and cyber-smart.
