As the holiday season approaches, online scams become increasingly prevalent, with cybercriminals taking advantage of increased spending, online shopping, and seasonal generosity. Here are the top cyber scams to watch for during this time and tips on how to protect yourself.
1. Fake Shopping Websites
Cybercriminals often create fraudulent websites that mimic legitimate online stores, luring shoppers with too-good-to-be-true deals on popular items. These sites can look authentic, with logos, images, and even “customer reviews” to convince unsuspecting buyers to input credit card details. Once payment is made, the scammer either disappears with the money, or the customer receives counterfeit goods
How to Protect Yourself:
- Stick to trusted retailers and be cautious of unfamiliar sites, even if their deals seem unbeatable.
- Look for “https” and a padlock icon in the URL bar.
- Avoid clicking on ads for sales from unknown sources and, instead, navigate to retailers’ sites directly.
2. Phishing Emails and Smishing (SMS *Text* Phishing)
During the holidays, phishing attempts increase significantly. These emails and texts often look like updates on orders or seasonal deals but are designed to steal sensitive information or install malware. Some may also pose as shipping companies like FedEx, Amazon, or UPS, requesting you to “confirm your address” or pay an “additional fee.”
How to Protect Yourself:
- Do not click links in unsolicited emails or texts. Instead, go directly to the sender’s official website to verify information.
- Double-check the email address or phone number for authenticity; bad actors often use slight variations of legitimate contacts.
- Enable two-factor authentication for added security when possible.
3. Charity Scams
Charity scams prey on holiday goodwill by posing as legitimate charities or creating fake campaigns to collect donations. These scammers contact potential donors via email, social media, or even phone calls, urging them to give money to a seemingly worthy cause. During the holiday season, fraudulent charities pretending to support disaster relief, children, or veterans often increase in volume. When in doubt, research the charity and call.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Research the charity on platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to verify legitimacy. Look up legal 501 c3 documentation.
- Avoid donating through unsolicited requests; go directly to the charity’s official website if you want to contribute.
4. Gift Card Scams
Gift card fraud is one of the most common holiday scams, where attackers either sell counterfeit cards or target consumers directly. Some scammers also pose as friends, family members, or even employers asking you to buy gift cards for them, typically under some urgent pretense.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Only purchase gift cards from reputable retailers and avoid third-party resellers.
- Never provide the gift card number or PIN over the phone or online to unverified sources.
- If someone requests payment via gift cards, be skeptical; legitimate companies do not ask for this form of payment.
5. Parcel Delivery Scams
Scammers capitalize on increased holiday package deliveries by sending fake delivery notifications. These messages claim that a package is on hold due to an unpaid fee or incorrect address and request payment or personal information to proceed. Often delivered by email or SMS, these messages may appear to be from major carriers.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Be cautious with unsolicited delivery notifications and do not click on suspicious links.
- Always track your packages directly on the carrier’s official website using the tracking number provided at purchase.
- Report suspicious messages to the carrier to help prevent further scams.
Final Tips for a Safe Holiday Season
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Avoid using debit cards and instead pay with credit cards or secure payment options like PayPal that offer additional protections.
- Update Software and Enable Security Features: Keeping your device’s software up-to-date and enabling security measures like firewalls and antivirus software can help protect against malicious websites.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements for unauthorized transactions, particularly during high-spending periods like the holidays.
By staying vigilant, avoiding unfamiliar links, and double-checking any request for information or payment, you can enjoy the holiday season without falling victim to cyber scams. For more cyber tips or any additional questions please contact us anytime at info@river-run.com or 414-228-7474.
Topics
Share this article