Navigating Online Safety During the Holiday Season Amid COVID-19
Dec 9, 2020 | Industry Insight
The COVID-19 pandemic has not only reshaped our daily lives but also opened new avenues for cybercriminals to exploit our generosity and quest for holiday deals. With the holiday season expected to set records in online shopping volumes and introduce many to digital platforms for the first time, the risk of falling prey to phishing scams and fraudulent activities is at an all-time high.
Essential Tips for Secure Online Activities This Holiday Season
To safeguard yourself and your loved ones from cyber threats during this festive period, consider the following cybersecurity practices:
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Avoid Clicking on Links in Emails or Social Media: Cybercriminals often create convincing fake advertisements. If an offer catches your eye, visit the retailer's official website directly.
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Beware of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals: Extreme discounts are often traps set by fake stores aiming to steal personal and payment information.
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Verify Charities Before Donating: Stick to well-known and previously interacted charities to ensure your donations reach the intended recipients.
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Watch Out for Counterfeit Mobile Apps: Only download apps from reputable app stores and ensure they are the official versions.
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Avoid Transactions on Public Wi-Fi: Public networks are insecure. Wait until you're on a trusted network before making any online purchases or entering sensitive information.
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Secure Video Conferencing for Family Gatherings: Send meeting links directly to participants and make sessions invitation-only to prevent unauthorized access.
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Verify the Legitimacy of Meeting Invitations: Phishing emails may disguise themselves as invitations. Always double-check the sender's address and look out for typosquatting in URLs.
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Enable End-to-End Encryption: Protect your video chats from potential eavesdroppers by using applications that offer end-to-end encryption.
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Stay Mindful of Your Emotional State: Phishers exploit emotions to succeed in their scams. Be extra cautious if you're feeling lonely or anxious.
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Educate Less Tech-Savvy Relatives: Offer guidance to family and friends who may be more susceptible to online scams, helping them recognize potential red flags.
Embrace a Safe and Joyful Holiday Season Online
By adhering to these cybersecurity services and managed detection and response (MDR) strategies, you can enjoy a festive and secure holiday season online. Remember, vigilance is key to preventing cyber threats. SecureSky is dedicated to providing advanced cybersecurity solutions, including MS Sentinel and comprehensive MDR services, to protect against the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
Stay informed and protect your digital presence this holiday season. For more insights on enhancing your cybersecurity posture, visit SecureSky's blog and consider our expert services for a safer online experience.
Wishing you a secure and joyful holiday season from all of us at SecureSky!