Written by:
Tina Radenz, Sr Information Security Officer
NDIT Governance, Risk & Compliance Team
The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and celebration, but it’s also a prime opportunity for cybercriminals to strike. While you’re busy shopping, traveling, and enjoying time with family & friends, bad actors are working overtime to exploit the chaos. From phishing emails to fake apps and bogus charities, cybercriminals are relentless in their attempts to disrupt your plans.
Common Holiday Scams to Watch Out For
- Phishing Emails and Fake Notifications - Be wary of emails claiming to be shipping notifications or urgent payment requests. Confirm purchases before opening delivery notification links. Cybercriminals prey on the holiday rush to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information.
- Bogus Charities - Heartwarming as the season may be, scammers often take advantage of your generosity. Always verify the legitimacy of charities before making donations.
- Sketchy Apps Offering Deals - A mobile app promising unbelievable discounts might be too good to be true. Download apps only from your device's certified app store to avoid malware.
Recognizing Suspicious Messages
No matter how cybercriminals reach out, whether by phone, email, or text, look for these warning signs:
- Unusual or Urgent Requests - If a message makes strange, unusual, urgent demands or stirs emotional urgency, pause and assess. If it seems too good to be true, it likely is.
- Requests for Money or Personal Information - Never share financial or personal details unless you’ve confirmed the source is legitimate. Regularly monitor your bank and credit card accounts for suspicious activity.
- Links and Attachments - Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments unless they’re from a trusted sender. Be extra cautious on mobile devices, where phishing links can be harder to detect.
Tips to Stay Cyber-Safe
Here are some proactive steps to protect yourself:
- Only shop from trusted retailer websites.
- Verify information before sharing on social media.
- Be cautious with connected devices like smart speakers, ensuring you understand what data they’re collecting.
- Stay alert to emerging threats like deepfake and AI scams by confirming the identity of people you’re communicating with.
Always Stop, Look, Think
Cybercriminals thrive on quick decisions made in the heat of the moment. By taking a moment to stop, look closely, and think critically, you can avoid falling victim to their schemes.
This holiday season, prioritize your safety and stay cyber-aware. With vigilance and a little caution, you can keep your celebrations secure and stress-free!