The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it’s also prime season for cybercriminals to take advantage of distracted shoppers. From fake charities to unbelievable online deals, scammers use clever tactics to steal money and personal information. Malicious links, fraudulent websites, and phishing emails are just some of the methods they use to carry out their attacks. In 2022, over 12,000 victims were reported, with a staggering $73 million lost due to these scams.
As you prepare for the season’s shopping frenzy, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect your devices, accounts, and personal information from online fraudsters. CISA’s Secure Our World offers a series of essential tips that will help keep you, your family, and your business safe from cyber threats.
1. Update Your Software
Outdated software is an easy target for cybercriminals. Updates fix security vulnerabilities and protect your devices from known threats. Before making any online purchases, ensure that your devices—whether it’s a laptop, tablet, or smartphone—are up to date. The simplest way is to enable automatic software updates so you never miss a patch.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defense against cybercrime. To enhance security, use long, complex passwords (at least 16 characters) and make sure they’re unique for each account. For your financial accounts and email, especially, avoid reusing passwords. Don’t forget to change the default passwords on new devices or tech products you purchase.
3. Use a Password Manager
Remembering strong passwords can be difficult, but a password manager can help. These tools generate, store, and auto-fill your passwords securely, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting them. Look for highly rated password managers through trusted sources like Consumer Reports, and set one up to make your online shopping safer.
4. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Multifactor authentication is a simple but effective way to add another layer of protection to your accounts. With MFA, even if someone gets access to your password, they’ll need to provide another form of identification (such as a fingerprint or a code sent to your phone) to log in. Enable MFA on all accounts that offer it.
5. Beware of Phishing Messages
Phishing attempts are at their peak during the holiday shopping season. Cybercriminals send emails or texts that appear to be from reputable retailers, offering tempting deals or urging you to verify your account details. However, these messages may contain links to malicious websites or ask for your personal information. Always be cautious when you receive unsolicited offers and only purchase from trusted websites.
6. Don’t Click on Suspicious Links or Download Attachments
Never click on links or download attachments in emails or texts from unknown sources. Even if the message seems legitimate, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Instead of calling a number from an email, look up the retailer’s contact information through their official website.
7. Be Wary of Requests for Information
Legitimate businesses won’t ask you for sensitive information—like your password or social security number—through email or text. Be especially cautious if you receive unexpected messages asking for delivery details or to confirm a purchase. If you’re unsure, contact the company directly through official channels.
8. Report Suspected Scams
If you suspect that you’ve encountered a phishing scam, report it immediately. Don’t engage with the message by replying or clicking any links, even if they offer to unsubscribe. Simply delete the message to protect yourself from further risk.
9. Check for Website Encryption
Before entering any sensitive information, such as credit card details, ensure the website is secure. Look for the “https” in the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar—these indicate that the website is encrypted and your information is transmitted securely.
10. Choose Reputable Vendors
While malicious websites may appear professional, it’s essential to verify a business before making a purchase. You can check if a business is accredited through the Better Business Bureau or search for customer reviews. Researching the vendor’s reputation can prevent you from falling victim to fraudulent sites.
11. Use Credit, Not Debit
When making online purchases, it’s generally safer to use a credit card rather than a debit card. Credit cards offer greater fraud protection, limiting your liability for unauthorized charges. In contrast, fraudulent debit charges can drain your account, leaving you without funds to cover essential expenses.
12. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
During the holiday season, you may make more purchases than usual. Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized charges. If you spot anything suspicious, contact your financial institution immediately to report the issue.
These safety tips are critical for protecting yourself from scams this holiday season, but they’re even more effective when shared with others. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about how to recognize scams and how to shop safely online. This way, everyone in your circle can benefit from staying one step ahead of fraudsters.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the holidays with peace of mind knowing that you’ve taken the necessary precautions to protect your personal information and finances. Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t let cybercriminals ruin your festive spirit!
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