ThreatLocker cyber issues tips to stay safe and avoid online scams this Christmas

ThreatLocker provides enterprise-level cybersecurity to organisations globally and has issued an important festive warning ahead of the holiday season.

ThreatLocker cyber experts are encouraging industry to release their inner scrooge and be extra vigilant and mindful and ensure not to divulge any sensitive business information such as online credentials.

As the holiday season is now upon us, cybercriminals tend to ramp up and intensify their work.

Christmas is a busy time for any organisation, and the same cyber-safe protocols apply. 

ThreatLocker encourages everyone to have a zero-trust policy approach throughout the season and throughout the year.

Research has shown that scammers are exceptional at adapting to new technologies and targeting Christmas vulnerability. 

Businesses should always approach the festive season with a heightened sense of awareness.

ThreatLocker cyber expert Eoin McGrath said: “You don’t have to be the Grinch this Christmas, but you must always stay vigilant”. 

To prevent cyber scams this Christmas, ThreatLocker has issued tips and advice: 

1. Christmas eCards
   Scammers often create a scenario that requires immediate action. In this case, it is the excitement of opening a Christmas card from an unknown sender. Look out for spelling mistakes, unknown emails, or suspicious links. Only open an eCard if you know exactly who it is from to avoid installing a virus onto your phone or computer. Already, scammers are telling us that the Netflix account has closed with the wrong information; they are even telling us that an important parcel is at the post office and needs payments topped up.
2. Fake product reviews
   Be it in business or your personal life; everyone will check the reviews of a product or a holiday destination before they book or buy. Cybercriminals will often post positive feedback on a product that is non-existent. Consumers must be weary of an overly positive product from an unknown brand. Too many positive reviews from an unknown product can convince the consumer it is a legitimate item.
3. Fake Charity Appeals
   As it is the season of goodwill, people often make a larger contribution or donation to their chosen charity. Scammers are more likely to appeal to people's emotions over the festive season and do this by setting up fake charities to solicit donations through persuasive emails or online campaigns. Before you donate, always ensure that it is to a registered charity.
4. Digital Gift Vouchers
   “For a chance to win, click here and share with friends and family!” While winning a luxurious gift voucher can be quite tempting, they are a common target for fraudsters, so it is best to follow a Zero Trust approach. Do not enter any online survey that is not legitimate. Fraudsters will use algorithms from your computer to see what products you are interested in. From this, it is easy to get a consumer to latch onto the idea of winning a fake gift card for their dream prize.

Always be aware that cyber security threats do not just occur during the holiday season. They occur 365 days of the year on a 24/7 basis. 

The festive season is one of the most likely times to suffer a data breach, and it is also the worst as most people are not working during this busy period. 

Maintain a Zero Trust policy approach this Christmas; only then can you sit back and relax for the holidays.