The holiday season is a peak time for cybercrime, as scammers take advantage of increased online activity. Both employees and businesses must stay vigilant to protect sensitive information and avoid falling victim to cyber threats.
For Employees:
- Avoid Phishing Scams: Be cautious of emails or messages offering unbelievable deals. Verify links and attachments before clicking, especially on work devices.
- Shop on Personal Devices: Keep work devices strictly for business use. Use personal gadgets for holiday shopping to avoid accidental breaches.
- Use Secure Networks: Avoid public Wi-Fi when shopping or accessing sensitive information. If necessary, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
For Businesses:
- Educate Your Team: Provide training on recognizing phishing attempts, fake websites, and other scams common during the holiday season.
- Strengthen Security: Update software, firewalls, and antivirus programs. Implement two-factor authentication (2FA) for all business accounts.
- Limit Permissions: Restrict employee access to sensitive systems and data to minimize risks if a breach occurs.
What to Avoid:
- Unverified Websites: Ensure any online purchases are made through trusted platforms with “https” and a padlock symbol in the URL.
- Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals: These are often scams designed to steal your payment information.
- Oversharing Information: Avoid giving unnecessary details, like Social Security numbers, when making purchases.
By prioritizing cyber safety, employees and businesses can enjoy the season’s benefits while minimizing risks. Stay smart, stay safe!
