Christmas is a time for celebration and winding down, but for cybercriminals, it’s peak season. Reduced business hours, increased online activity, and overflowing inboxes create the perfect storm for scams and attacks. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the move, it’s important to stay vigilant and take simple steps to protect yourself and your data this festive season.
AT HOME: STAY SAVVY, CLOCK THE SCAMMERS
Your inbox is likely filling up with delivery updates, holiday offers, and festive greetings. Cybercriminals take advantage of this, sending phishing emails that look genuine but aim to steal your data.
Here’s how to spot the fakes:
- Look for unusual sender addresses or domains.
- Be wary of unexpected links or attachments.
- Watch for poor spelling, grammar, or urgent wording designed to make you act without thinking.
- Remember, not all phishing attempts come from big brands—criminals are using AI to mimic local businesses, making their scams feel more personal.
If you’re unsure about an email, don’t click on links or download attachments. Instead, verify the sender through official channels.
AT WORK: KEEP THE BRUTES AT BAY
Brute force attacks—where criminals repeatedly guess login credentials—are a common tactic during the holidays, especially against generic accounts like “admin” or “administrator.” Combined with reduced staff monitoring systems, it’s a recipe for disaster if defences aren’t in place.
Steps to secure your systems:
- Use Strong Passphrases: Choose unique, complex passwords or upgrade to biometrics or hardware keys.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security for all internet-facing accounts.
- Set Login Limits: Lock accounts after 5-10 failed login attempts to stop brute force attacks in their tracks.
- Update Software: Apply the latest patches and updates before your team winds down for the break.
Make sure critical systems are monitored over the holiday period, and set up alerts for any unusual activity.
ON THE GO: WATCH FOR PITFALLS
Cybercriminals know people are busier than ever during the holidays, shopping, banking, and connecting online while on the go. Don’t let convenience compromise your security.
Here’s how to stay safe:
- Be App-Savvy: Only download apps from trusted sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Check permissions and reviews before installing.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi networks can leave you vulnerable to data theft. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection if needed.
- Think Before You Share: Be cautious of unsolicited messages or calls asking for personal or financial details. Verify independently before sharing any information.
By taking these simple precautions at home, at work, and on the move, you can reduce your risk and enjoy a worry-free holiday season. From all of us at Intercity, we wish you a safe and happy Christmas! 🎄
