As the holiday season approaches, cybercriminals ramp up their efforts to exploit online shoppers and tech enthusiasts. Here are the top five technology-related scams to be aware of during the holiday season:
- Phishing Attacks:
- What to watch for: Deceitful emails or texts that mimic legitimate companies, often urging you to click on malicious links or download attachments. These can lead to malware infections or identity theft.
- How to protect yourself: Be cautious of unexpected emails, especially those with urgent requests or suspicious links. Verify the sender’s address and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
- Fake Online Stores:
- What to watch for: Counterfeit websites that mimic popular retailers, offering enticing deals and discounts. These fraudulent sites often steal your credit card information and personal data.
- How to protect yourself: Shop on reputable websites and verify the URL before entering sensitive information. Look for secure payment gateways (HTTPS) and customer reviews.
- Social Media Scams:
- What to watch for: Bogus giveaways, contests, or surveys on social media platforms that promise valuable prizes in exchange for personal information.
- How to protect yourself: Be wary of unsolicited offers and avoid sharing personal information on social media. Stick to official company pages and verified accounts.
- Tech Support Scams:
- What to watch for: Unexpected phone calls or pop-up messages claiming to be from tech support, often warning of critical issues with your computer. These scammers may attempt to charge you for unnecessary services or gain remote access to your device.
- How to protect yourself: Never trust unsolicited calls or pop-up messages. Contact your device manufacturer or internet service provider directly for legitimate tech support.
- Gift Card Scams:
- What to watch for: Requests from friends or family to purchase gift cards for various reasons, often through email or text messages. These requests may be fraudulent, with scammers attempting to steal the gift card codes.
- How to protect yourself: Verify gift card requests directly with the person, preferably through a phone call or in person. Be cautious of unusual requests, especially if they seem urgent or out of character.
Additional Tips:
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system and security software to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords for all your online accounts and consider using a password manager.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scams and cybersecurity best practices.
By being vigilant and following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to tech scams during the holiday season and beyond.
Also read about other scams that are common year-round.
If you’ve fallen victim to a scam and need help recovering your device, accounts or identity, contact Computer Techs for assistance.
