It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of holiday sales and gift shopping, but that’s when cybersecurity risks are often overlooked. This time of year, cybercriminals are more active than ever, seeing it as the perfect chance to target people when they’re most vulnerable.
Being aware of your risks and keeping your actions in mind is the most effective way to avoid being targeted by cybercriminals.
Cybersecurity Tips when Shopping Online
Emails
- Be cautious with sales ads. If an email from your favorite store looks too good to resist, don’t click the link—type the store’s URL directly into your browser instead. Hackers often create fake ads to trick you into visiting fraudulent websites and stealing your personal or financial information.
- Avoid clicking on attachments, especially ones claiming to offer coupons or deals. These could be fake and might contain ransomware, putting your computer and entire network at risk.
- Emails from financial institutions can be a common trick used by hackers. They often pose as your bank, asking you to reset your password or provide sensitive information to unlock your account, all to steal your details.
- Emails asking for charity donations can sometimes be scams designed to steal your financial information. Always verify the legitimacy of the organization before donating.
Browser
- Saving passwords in your browser might be convenient, but it comes with serious risks. If your device is stolen or hacked, cybercriminals can access all your saved passwords. A password manager is a much safer alternative.
- Before shopping online, make sure the site uses SSL protection. You can easily check by looking for “HTTPS” in the URL in your browser’s address bar. Avoid submitting payment or personal information on sites without SSL protection.
- Do not use the same password on shopping sites as you would on your bank or another financial account.
- Make sure your software is up-to-date in order to protect yourself from the latest vulnerabilities.
Cybersecurity Tips when Traveling
- Disable auto-connect on Bluetooth to prevent your devices from automatically connecting to any available wireless networks. By turning off this feature, you’ll have control over which networks your devices connect to.
- Steer clear of using public Wi-Fi for online shopping, banking, or accessing sensitive information. Public networks can be insecure, putting your data at risk.
- Keep your belongings secure at all times, especially while traveling, as thieves often target tourists. Stay vigilant and protect your valuables.
- Keep your screen hidden from prying eyes. If you need to work on a computer in public, consider using a privacy screen to protect your information from being seen by others.
Staying vigilant against cyber threats is key to protecting your business and personal data. If you’re looking for expert support to strengthen your cybersecurity, Velonex Technologies is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can secure your IT and simplify your tech needs. Contact Us Today!