Cyber Weekend: Protecting your wallet (and data)
Tag: security help
Publish Date
23/11/2023
Categories
Blogs Hot Topic
The much-anticipated Cyber Weekend, consisting of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is just around the corner. As consumers gear up ‘too good to be true’ deals and discounts, cyber criminals are also preparing to exploit this opportunity. So, what crucial steps should you take to ensure a safe Cyber Weekend?
1. Watch out for an increase in phishing attempts
Cyber criminals increase using enticing offers and fake emails to trick you into revealing personal information. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, especially those offering ‘too good to be true’ deals (because most likely, they probably are). Double-check the sender’s email address (watching out for that Cyrillic a!) and avoid clicking on suspicious links. When in doubt, visit the retailer’s official website directly instead of clicking on links in emails.
2. Shop on secure websites
Before making a purchase, ensure the website is secure. Look out for “https://” in the URL and that little padlock icon in the address bar. These indicators mean your connection to the website is encrypted, making it much harder for cyber criminals to intercept your data.
3. Avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but are often much less secure. Avoid making financial transactions or accessing sensitive information while connected to public Wi-Fi, because if you don’t use a VPN, you may find you’re not the only one viewing your online banking…
4. Update, update, update
Take a moment to ensure all your devices and apps are up to date. Outdated software, operating systems, or apps can be easy targets for cyber criminals. So, make it a habit to update your devices regularly to stay protected.
5. Secure your accounts
Strong, unique passwords are your first line of defence against cyber threats. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts and consider using a password manager to keep track of complex passwords. Enabling MFA wherever possible also adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification method, such as a text message or an authentication app.
6. Check your statements regularly
Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements during and after the Cyber Weekend because you’ll want to report any suspicious or unauthorised transactions immediately. Many financial institutions offer mobile apps that provide real-time transaction alerts, making it easier to spot potential fraud and therefore a much quicker response.
7. Use credit, not debit!
Credit cards offer better fraud protection than debit cards. In case of unauthorised charges, you can dispute them more effectively with a credit card company and so have a higher chance of getting back any money you lost.
8. Be cautious with personal information
Retailers often request personal information during the checkout process. Usually, the information needed will be the same no matter the website, so be cautious if a company is asking for additional details.
9. Keep your guard up
While Cyber Weekend is an exciting time for shopping, it’s also a prime opportunity for cyber criminals. Stay vigilant and trust your instincts – rushing to deals is a cyber criminals dream!
With the amount you must think of, we know it can get pretty overwhelming. Having to remember to use a VPN and select your credit card while on the train to a meeting that you’re already late for? It’s a lot! So, if you feel you need some help in securing your business, whether that be security software or handing over your IT troubles to us, get in touch with our team today.
Stay safe and happy shopping!
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