By Sharon Aron Baron
As the holiday season approaches, cybercriminals are gearing up for their most lucrative time of year.
With people’s guards down and a flurry of online activity, hackers use increasingly sophisticated methods to lure in their victims. From phishing emails and spoofed websites to fake charities and delivery scams, it’s essential to be on the lookout for potential threats.
Marijus Briedis, a cybersecurity expert at NordVPN, offers some tips to protect yourself from cyber criminals this holiday season:
In your rush to snag a holiday deal, check your cybersecurity and avoid clicking on pop-up ads or links to unfamiliar websites. Use a search engine to find the retailer you want and activate antivirus software to check for malicious sites.
The traditional surge in package deliveries in December creates an ideal opportunity for delivery scams to thrive. Be wary of emails or texts with tracking links, and cross-check any codes with the delivery company’s website.
When shopping with independent retailers, be cautious of fake e-stores created by hackers using details from genuine listings on marketplaces like Etsy. Check out unfamiliar shopping sites or listings thoroughly and be on the lookout for suspicious language and product reviews.
Internet-of-things (IoT) devices like smartwatches, voice assistants, and health trackers are popular holiday gifts. Still, many people fail to take action to protect their home internet, wi-fi, and smart devices. Make sure to change the default password on your new smart device and consider adding an antivirus or VPN to your router to safeguard your IoT gadgets.
Hackers know that online vouchers and e-gift cards are popular gift choices, so be wary of emails claiming to be from retailers offering vouchers. Always verify the authenticity of any gift card offers before clicking on any links.
By following these tips and being vigilant about potential threats, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from cybercrime this holiday season.
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