As the holiday season approaches, cybercriminals are exploiting weak security systems to target vulnerable individuals. Learn about 10 common scams to stay safe online.
As the holidays approach, scams become more likely. The holiday shopping rush and growing use of IoT gadgets are helping cybercriminals target weak security solutions. Check Point, a software company, listed eleven Christmas frauds and how to avoid them.
10 Common Holiday Scams to Avoid:
Here’s how to avoid false social media marketing, fake charities, and job scams:
1) Avoid deceptive social media marketing for fake internet stores. Research the store’s validity, avoid scams, install security software, and check financial documents.
2) Delivery Scams: Fake alerts about shipping delays or delivery fees might be scams. If in doubt, check message sources, visit the delivery service website, and contact the company.
3) Fake Charities: Scammers build charities to obtain personal data or profit. Webcheck a charity’s authenticity and crowdfunding campaign details.
Scammers target holiday vacations and rare items. Research sellers, avoid unrealistic bargains, use HTTPS, read conditions, and trust your intuition.
5) Beware of phishing emails impersonating well-known brands. Check sender information, avoid dubious links, and verify promotions on company websites.
6) Job Scams: Scammers promise high wages. Check for employment authenticity, realistic salary, and avoid jobs that require supplies or training.
7) ‘Grandparent Scams’: Fake grandchildren may phone seniors for money. Warn elderly about this scam, question urgent requests, and check with relatives.
8) Public Wi-Fi Hacking: Airports and hotels have vulnerable Wi-Fi networks. Avoid purchasing on public Wi-Fi, utilize encrypted networks, and use a VPN.
- Connected IoT and Mobile Entertainment Risks: Cybercriminals may abuse mobile games and IoT devices. Research apps before installing, check permissions, safeguard IoT devices with passwords and updates, and teach kids about internet hazards.
- 10) BEC Scams: Fraudsters imitate CEOs to trick others into paying false invoices. Report potential BEC frauds, check for red flags, and verify requests with executives.
Conclusion
Cybercriminals target vulnerable people as the holidays approach using poor security solutions. Check Point lists eleven holiday frauds and how to avoid them. These include deceptive social media adverts, delivery scams, phony charities, fraudulent ticket or rare item offers, phishing scams, job scams, ‘Grandparent scams’, public Wi-Fi hacking, connected IoT and mobile entertainment threats, and BEC scams. Install security tools, verify the store, and check financial documents to keep protected. Beware of phony charities, ticket or rare item scams, phishing emails, job scams, ‘Grandparent scams’, public Wi-Fi hacking, and business email compromise scams.
