The holiday season is a time for joy and giving, but it also presents a heightened risk of cyberattacks. With online shopping, social media activity, and digital communications surging, cybercriminals are capitalizing on opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities. Here are essential tips to keep your data, devices, and online accounts safe during the holidays.
Remain Vigilant When Shopping Online
- Shop on Trusted Sites: Stick to well-known retailers. Verify unfamiliar sites by reading reviews and ensuring the URL begins with "https://" and includes a padlock icon.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Credit cards typically offer better fraud protection than debit cards. Trusted platforms like PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay add extra security.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Public networks are vulnerable to attacks. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection is one layer of defense.
Phishing Emails and Scams
- Verify Unexpected Emails: Be cautious of unsolicited offers or deals. Contact companies using official details or log in to existing accounts through a separate browser window rather than clicking links in the email.
- Scrutinize Email Addresses: Fake emails often have slight variations in spelling or domain names. Double-check the sender’s address.
- Use Email Filters: Activate spam filters to catch suspicious emails and report phishing attempts.
Secure Your Devices and Accounts
- Enable Two-factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds a critical layer of security by requiring additional verification. Enable it for any accounts that store your personal information, like banking, shopping, and social media.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. A password manager can simplify managing multiple strong passwords.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, browsers, and antivirus software to protect against new security threats.
Be Mindful of Social Media Sharing
- Limit Sensitive Information: Avoid posting details such as travel dates, your location, or personal data that could aid criminals.
- Adjust Privacy Settings: Ensure your posts are visible only to trusted friends and family.
- Be Wary of Online Contests: Verify the legitimacy of contests before participating. Avoid providing sensitive information, even for seemingly valuable prizes.
Secure Your Home Network
- Change Default Passwords: Replace default credentials on smart devices with strong, unique passwords.
- Create a Guest Network: Separate networks for visitors reduce the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive devices.
- Use Strong Encryption: Secure your Wi-Fi network with WPA3 (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available) to protect against data interception.
Beware of Holiday-Themed Malware
- Download from Official Sources: Stick to trusted platforms like the Apple App Store or Google Play. Avoid downloading files from unknown sites.
- Scan Email Attachments: Use antivirus software to scan attachments or links before opening them.
- Avoid Pop-up Ads: Many pop-ups offering discounts or free gifts are designed to redirect you to malicious sites.
Smartphone Snatching
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep your phone out of sight in crowded areas and use earphones when making calls. Avoid using phone cases with cardholders incorporated.
- Enable Security Features: Enable and utilize features such as Find My (iOS), Theft Detection Lock (Android) and require face ID to open applications.
- Act Quickly and Remain Vigilant: If your device is stolen, quickly activate security features such as Lost Mode. Remain vigilant afterwards, as targeted social engineering attacks could occur.
- Learn More: The Growing Threat of Smartphone Snatching: How to Protect Your Data & Devices
If you're paying attention to your company's cybersecurity training, these tips should be second nature. The holiday season is particularly lucrative for cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities. Staying proactive and vigilant, especially during this time, minimizes opportunities for breaches or compromises. Together, we can ensure a safe and secure digital environment for everyone.
