10 Simple Cybersecurity Holiday Tips

10 Simple Cybersecurity Holiday Tips

By Melody Koenig, CISO at FirsTrust

As the end-of-the-year celebrations are approaching, it is important to be mindful of cyber risks
and increase measures to be secure. Here are some helpful tips to keep your data safe
throughout the most wonderful time of the year!

❖ Be suspicious of potential disinformation. Cyber actors love to deceive and spread
disinformation. Use critical thinking skills and verify what you have read online, especially
before you share anything.

❖ Resist the urge - Don’t click on advertisements. Many offer deals that seem too good to be true
– because they usually are!

❖ The holidays are not the time to experiment with new shopping websites and/or apps. Only
shop directly from trusted retailer’s websites. Also, keep an eye out for fake websites made to
look like a trusted retailer site.

❖ Even if you are hurried and in your local coffee shop, do not shop online using public Wi-Fi.
Hackers love to steal information from public Wi-Fi users. Wait until you can get connected to a
secure Wi-Fi before shopping.

❖ Don’t fall for fake delivery email or text messages. They may appear to come from FedEx, DHL,
or UPS. The cyber criminal is hoping you will click on the link. You should STOP – LOOK – THINK
before clicking. Go directly to the provider’s website to investigate if you are unsure.

❖ Be careful about what Apps you download. Only download apps from your device’s certified
app store. Also, be sure the app’s security settings aren’t asking for more permission than they
need. If you don’t agree with their request, do not install the app.

❖ Monitor your bank account and card activity.

❖ When possible, turn on alerts from your bank to notify you of any strange activity or purchases
above a certain amount.

❖ Contact your card issuer immediately using the phone number found on the back of your card if
you notice anything suspicious.

❖ Don’t overshare on social media sites. Burglars have been known to monitor people’s social
media to see when they are not home. Wait to post those pictures when you are safe back
home.