Happy holidays to the cyber criminals hoping to mine your data while you do holiday online shopping on these cold winter nights.
That’s right, research shows a 30% increase in ransomware attacks during the holiday season compared to the rest of the year.
Why is that? Cyber criminals take advantage of the fact that many businesses
have reduced staff and slower response times to go after their systems, and those databases often contain private information on customers like you.
It’s not just your consumer information that you have to worry about either. You also need to think about the private data stored on you in your own company’s HR department. Nobody wants that database exposed on the dark web.
It’s not just ransomware either. There is also an annual rise in phishing attempts and fraud during the holidays. Attackers often use holiday themed lures, such as fake promotions
or festive greetings, to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information.
Despite the increased risk, many organizations are not adequately prepared. A significant number of businesses do not have specific contingency plans in place to respond to cyber attacks during the holiday season.
How can you stay safe when doing holiday online shopping?
- Verify online stores. When doing your holiday shopping, always verify the legitimacy of online stores before making purchases.
- Look for https in the URL because the S stands for secure.
- Use credit cards. When you do make a purchase, use credit cards over debit cards for online purchases as they offer better fraud protection.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi. Try not to buy anything on public Wi-Fi as it tends to be less secure.
- Enable multi-factor authentication – MFA. Add an extra layer of security
by enabling MFA on your accounts. - Beware of phishing scams. Be cautious of emails or messages that ask for personal information, or prompt you to click on suspicious links.
- Monitor your accounts. Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions.
- Update your software. Keep your devices and software up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Use strong passwords. Ensure your passwords are unique and complex for each account.
- Consider using a password manager.
The holidays are a joyous time. Don’t let cyber criminals spoil the fun.
Whether it’s protecting private data at work or securing your information as a consumer, cyber safety makes for a much better winter season.
As the holidays approach, it’s crucial to remember that cyber threats are not taking a break. With increased online activity and potential vulnerabilities, it’s more important than ever to prioritize cyber security.
By following the tips outlined you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyber attacks.
Remember, a little vigilance can go a long way. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy
a worry free holiday season.
At Commonwealth Sentinel, we can evaluate your existing IT security, work with your team to improve your security, or we can provide complete VCISO services.
At Commonwealth Sentinel, we stay focused on cyber security so you can focus on other things. . Contact us today or sign up for a free consultation.