Beware of Online Scams This Holiday Season
The period from November to December is particularly lucrative for cybercriminals. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), incidents of online shopping scams increase during these months. The tactics employed by scammers vary widely. But why does this happen? Well, during the holiday rush, many of us tend to relax our vigilance. Distracted or excited by deals, we sometimes become easy targets. Being cautious can help prevent both data breaches and financial losses. Here’s a look at some common scams to keep in mind.
What Should You Do?
Make sure to stay alert and think critically about offers that seem too good to be true. Researching sites and sellers can go a long way in protecting yourself.
Know the Risks
As the shopping frenzy continues, it’s important to remember that every purchase, coupon code, or sign-up adds to a profile that marketers and data brokers create about you. This information can persist online long after the holidays are over. The good news is that it’s becoming increasingly straightforward to reclaim your privacy. By committing just a few minutes now, you can enjoy a more secure holiday season knowing your data isn’t readily available online.
Lastly, if you suspect your email might have been compromised in a breach, it’s wise to check. A top-rated password manager includes a feature that scans for your email in known data leaks. If a match is found, changing your reused passwords and securing accounts with unique credentials is vital.
This holiday season, stay aware and take precautions to protect your privacy and finances.
