How To Protect Yourself From Cyber Scams During The Holidays

By Adriano Mesina

The holiday season in the Philippines is a time for celebration, gift-giving, and shopping, but it also brings a surge in cyber scams. With Filipinos increasingly turning to online platforms for purchases, banking, and social interactions, cybercriminals are seizing this opportunity to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Phishing emails, fraudulent promotions, imitation websites, and even false advertising entice unsuspecting individuals into giving away sensitive information or making unauthorized payments. 

As they say, cyber criminals love Christmases too.

Protect yourself from cyber scams during the festive season.  Here’s how.

First, always verify the legitimacy of websites and online sellers before making any transactions. Cybercriminals often create fake websites that mimic popular e-commerce platforms to steal personal and financial information. Look for secure connections indicated by “https” in the website address and check reviews from other buyers. Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails or messages, even if they appear to come from trusted sources. Instead, navigate directly to the official website to ensure your safety.

Second, strengthen your passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for all online accounts. Many scams involve unauthorized access to personal accounts, which can lead to identity theft or fraudulent transactions. Use unique, complex passwords for each platform, combining upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. Enabling 2FA adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second verification step to access your account, such as a one-time code sent to your mobile phone.

Lastly, be cautious with public Wi-Fi networks. During holiday shopping sprees, you may be tempted to connect to free Wi-Fi in malls or cafes. However, these networks are often unsecured, making it easier for hackers to intercept sensitive information. Avoid accessing banking apps or entering credit card details while on public Wi-Fi. If you must use these networks, a virtual private network (VPN) can encrypt your data, providing an additional shield against cyber threats.

Always stay vigilant and proactive so that you can enjoy the holiday season without falling victim to cyber scams. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in ensuring a safe and joyful celebration.