Cybersecurity tips for this Christmas

We are days away from Christmas and online purchases are increasing as cyberattacks skyrocket as a result of a poor or non-existent implementation of cybersecurity. Among so many offers, gifts and congratulations that we receive on social networks, mail or by message, it is very difficult to distinguish between authentic and false.

For this reason, in this article we share some cybersecurity tips for Christmas shopping . As well as the most common cyberattacks so as not to be victims of cybercriminals and receive a happy cyberattack .

Most common cyberattacks at Christmas

Beware of Christmas apps

Certainly cybercriminals know very well how to take advantage of our Christmas spirit and launch applications dedicated to Christmas. They promise frames, effects or filters so original of the time, that we download them without further ado. Giving them permission to steal our information through the multiple permissions they request.
We are days away from Christmas and online purchases are increasing as cyberattacks skyrocket as a result of a poor or non-existent implementation of cybersecurity. Among so many offers, gifts and congratulations that we receive on social networks, mail or by message, it is very difficult to distinguish between authentic and false.

Christmas smishing cyberattacks

Smishing is a very common practice that is triggered at Christmas. Cybercriminals pose as entities requesting the user via SMS to confirm personal information among other sensitive data under the argument “for security”. The user’s lack of caution could have disastrous consequences.
Irresistible Christmas deals
Organizations often launch special offers or promotions on the occasion of Christmas or the end of the year . That they reach their customers through emails, messages or advertisements, which makes it the perfect scenario for cybercriminals. They pose as organizations with tempting offers and sometimes a time limit that customers become the perfect target.

Cyber ​​attacks on Christmas shopping

Due to the increase in purchases on these dates, it is common to receive invoice emails, purchases made, user credentials or even newsletter announcements, therefore it becomes the perfect target for cybercriminals, increasing the chances of being a victim of a cyberattack .

Christmas card attacks

Probably one of the favorite practices of cybercriminals is Christmas cards. Taking advantage of the fact that we receive congratulations or gifts from friends, partners or brands. All you have to do is open the email or the attached image to be the victim of a cyberattack.

christmas coupons

Christmas coupons or promotions are a very efficient technique of cybercriminals who send us through ads on social networks, emails or direct messages. They captivate us with their Christmas designs and marketing that are hard to resist.

Cyberattacks on donations to NGOs

Finally, we have donations to Non-Governmental Organizations. Cybercriminals know how to take advantage of the charity and goodwill of users by asking for donations – no matter how small – hooking them with a moving message, showing missing data and making them feel important, that, by accessing the donation, they can be victims of theft of identity or hijacking of information.

Cybersecurity tips for Christmas

Use strong and complex passwords

Not using the same password for all accounts is essential. Make sure that the password meets the minimum length required and that it is made up of special characters (such as @, #, $, etc. and at least one capital letter). Be creative. Play with the characters and numbers.

Cybersecurity when browsing secure websites

Before opening any link, it is essential to take a moment to analyze the url that we are going to click. Make sure that the link begins with the security protocol https:// and that the site we are trying to access has a security certificate (it appears as a padlock right next to the url in the browser)

Cybersecurity in private Wi-Fi networks

Avoid at all costs the use of public and open Wi-Fi networks. These networks are generally unsecured and do not have any type of security in place. If possible, use a VPN. In addition to helping us navigate anonymously, they encrypt the information that is sent over the network, ensuring that the data travels securely.

Cyber ​​security with virtual credit cards

Today, most banks implement digital cards as a security and data protection measure for their users. These cards are randomly generated by bank apps and allow you to make any payment without having to provide the actual details of the physical card. Once the payment is made, the card disappears. As an additional security measure, it is recommended to deactivate the cards when we are not using them, which can also be done from the pp.

Cybersecurity as a culture of data protection

As a last tip, but not least, maintain a culture of cybersecurity, not only at this time, but throughout the year. Install antivirus on computers and devices, distrust any message or email we receive, keep applications and operating systems updated and always be careful with every click we make.
In the Financial Fraud Portal of the Condusef , you will be able to find out in real time about the most recent cyberattacks, as well as share your experience in case you have been a victim or are about to be.

In a digital world, we can all be victims of a cyber attack and maintaining a culture of cybersecurity could make a difference. We hope that these tips have been useful for your Christmas shopping. Let’s not let our guard down and maintain a culture of cybersecurity. Protecting ourselves is in our hands. Do you know more cybersecurity tips?