‘Tis the season! Time to exchange holiday greetings, get your decorations up, and perhaps most importantly, time to hunker down with your laptop and do your holiday shopping. What was once a simple trip to the department store to load up on everyone’s favorite sweaters has become as quick and easy as the click of a mouse. At least that’s how it would be in an ideal world. Unfortunately, cyber criminals may be waiting in the wings. It’s important to stay vigilant, so here are some common holiday shopping scams to avoid to keep your season merry and bright.

1. Package Delivery Scams
   1. With the deluge of packages arriving at your doorstep during the holiday season, it’s virtually impossible to know where everything is at any given moment, and scammers know it. They seize the opportunity with fraudulent texts or emails claiming to be updates about delivery time, package location, etc. Once you click the provided link, your device could be infected with malware that can steal your identity or gain access to sensitive information. If you’re unsure about an email or text, don’t click the link! Go directly to the retailer website and track your package through their tracking services.
2. Phishing Scams
   1. Phishing is the most common type of cyber scam in general, but people are more susceptible during the holiday season due to the sheer amount of purchasing going on. That company sending you a text for a last-minute sale could be sending you a link that will infect your device. Make sure the communication is coming from a legitimate source, and if you’re unsure, contact the customer service department of the retailer.
3. Social Media Scams
   1. We’ve all seen it while we’re scrolling. The targeted, perfectly curated ad. You click, you buy, and that’s that! Well, you thought so, until you realized you clicked on a fake store and gave them your credit card details. Be sure to verify the authenticity of any website you want to buy from, and use resources like the Better Business Bureau to check any red flags.
4. Beware of Public Wi-Fi
   1. Though cyber criminals can intercept data over public wi-fi any time of year, they often choose to pounce around the holiday season due to the number of people making purchases at any given time of day. When making purchases, be sure to use a secure wi-fi network to keep your information safe and private.
5. Look Over Those E-Cards
   1. Oh look, the boss sent you an e-card! Strange that she misspelled her own name, but I’m sure it’s fine. During the holiday season, e-cards are sent frequently; a quick, easy way to show someone you’re thinking of them. Scammers know this all too well and take advantage, sending fraudulent links that can act as a backdoor into your network, giving them access to personal and financial information. Always verify the sender of an email before clicking on a link.

We hope this quick rundown helps to arm you against the bad actors and cyber criminals aiming to take advantage of people’s holiday spirit. With awareness, vigilance, and proper training, you can be sure to have a happy—and scam-free—holiday season.