Security Tips: Holiday Online Shopping and Travel

Security Tips: Holiday Online Shopping and Travel

For many of us, the holiday season is about friends, family, food, travel, and shopping! Unfortunately, cybercriminals take advantage of this busyness of the holidays to target shoppers and travelers. They aim to catch you off guard when or where you least expect it and use various ways to try to scam you. Follow the tips below for safe online shopping and travel:

Verify attachments are safe before downloading them

Cybercriminals often send fake email notifications pretending to be from retailers or postal services, claiming order updates or package delays. These emails may include malicious attachments or ask for payment information to "release" your package. Please always verify the notification by contacting the company directly or checking your order on their website before you take action.

Verify links before clicking

Be cautious of malvertising, where cybercriminals use ads to spread malware or steal sensitive information. To stay safe, only click ads from trusted sources or visit a retailer's official website directly to shop.

Use strong passwords

Use strong passwords for all your devices, apps, and services, including those you use while traveling. For added security, enable biometric features like fingerprint or facial recognition on your device before your trip.

Beware of public Wi-Fi networks

Always turn off the option to automatically connect to

Wi-Fi networks on your phone, tablet, or computer. Instead, manually choose which network you'd like to join. Only use Wi-Fi networks that you know are safe, and never connect to random hotspots.

Secure your devices when they are not in use

Always keep your phone, tablet, or computer with you. If you must step away, lock your device and ask a trusted friend or family member to watch it. Never leave devices unattended in plain sight, especially in a vehicle.