The holiday season brings warmth, joy, and bustling online activity, as millions shop for gifts and deals. However, it also presents a lucrative opportunity for cybercriminals. As Scott Augenbaum, author of The Secret to Cybersecurity, puts it: “It’s crucial to develop a Cybersecure Mindset to safeguard ourselves from lurking cybercriminals.”

With over 280 million Americans shopping online during the holidays in 2023—and projections indicating 285 million by 2025—cybersecurity has never been more important. This guide offers proactive steps to protect yourself from phishing scams, fake websites, and other online threats, ensuring your holiday shopping experience is both joyful and secure.

The Cyber Threat Landscape

During the holiday shopping season, cybercriminals prey on the increased online activity, exploiting vulnerabilities in human behavior and technology. In 2024, U.S. e-commerce sales are projected to hit $1.2 trillion, showcasing the enormous volume of transactions and exchanging personal data.

Two of the most common threats shoppers face are:

Phishing Scams

Phishing involves fraudulent attempts to steal sensitive information—like passwords or credit card details—by impersonating trusted entities. A typical scenario involves receiving an email from what appears to be a popular retailer, offering exclusive discounts. Clicking the link will lead to a fake website designed to harvest your personal information. How to Spot and Avoid Phishing Scams:

• Scrutinize URLs: Hover over links before clicking to verify their authenticity.
• Check for urgency: Be cautious of messages claiming you must act immediately.
• Verify the sender: Confirm the legitimacy of email addresses or phone numbers. Scott warns, “If a message or deal feels rushed or too enticing, step back and evaluate. Cybercriminals love exploiting urgency.”

Fake Websites

Cybercriminals create counterfeit e-commerce sites that mimic legitimate ones. These websites often feature fake product listings and deep discounts to lure unsuspecting shoppers into making purchases. Unfortunately, these transactions result in financial loss, and the promised items never arrive. How to Detect Fraudulent Websites:

• Look for HTTPS Encryption: Check that the website uses HTTPS in its URL.
• Research the Website: Search for reviews and ensure the retailer has a credible online presence.
• Avoid Unrealistic Discounts: Deals that seem too good to be true usually are.“Always shop from trusted retailers,” Scott advises. “Stick to sites you’ve used before or those with verified reputations.”

Proactive Steps for a Cyber-Safe Holiday

To ensure your shopping experience remains secure, follow these essential cybersecurity tips:

1. Verify Websites and Links

• Hover over links before clicking to reveal the actual URL.
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages.
• Use a search engine to navigate to a retailer’s website directly.

2. Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Create unique passwords for every online account.
• Opt for a password manager to keep track of them.
• Activate 2FA for an added layer of security on your accounts.

Scott explains, “Two-factor authentication adds a crucial barrier that can keep attackers at bay, even if they gain access to your password.”

3. Monitor Financial Activity

• Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges.
• Set up transaction alerts with your bank to receive real-time notifications.
• Use credit cards instead of debit cards, as they offer better fraud protection.

4. Avoid Shopping on Public Wi-Fi

• Public Wi-Fi is often unsecured and leaves your data vulnerable.
• Instead, shop using a secured home network or a VPN.
• Disable file sharing and use “forget network” for public Wi-Fi connections.

5. Use a Secure Antivirus

• A reliable antivirus solution is essential for protecting your devices from malware and other online threats. PC Matic offers a secure, performance-optimized antivirus designed to block malicious activity in real time.
• Unlike traditional solutions, PC Matic focuses on a whitelist-based approach, preventing unauthorized applications from running and reducing your exposure to cyberattacks.
• Ensure your antivirus is always active and updated for maximum protection.

“Your antivirus is your first line of defense,” Scott notes. “Investing in a secure solution like PC Matic can save you from countless potential headaches.”

6. Update Your Devices and Software

• Ensure your operating system, browser, and antivirus software are updated.
• Install updates promptly to patch known vulnerabilities.

“An updated device is a safer device,” Scott stresses. “Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software.”

7. Use Secure Payment Methods

• Prefer payment platforms like PayPal or digital wallets for added security.
• Avoid saving payment details on shopping websites.

What to Do If You Encounter a Scam

If you suspect fraudulent activity or become a victim of a scam:

1. Report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/.
2. Contact your financial institution to dispute fraudulent charges and secure your accounts.
3. Share your experience to warn others about potential threats.

Scott encourages reporting scams promptly: “By taking action, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re helping safeguard others as well.”

Empower Yourself with Knowledge

To fortify your defenses, Scott Augenbaum’s book, The Secret to Cybersecurity, offers practical strategies and real-world stories to help individuals and families navigate the digital world safely. “Education is the first step to prevention,” Scott says.

You can purchase the book and access more resources for staying cyber-safe during the holidays at Cyber Secure Mindset.

Conclusion

The holiday season should be a time of joy and connection, not anxiety over cybersecurity risks. By following these tips and adopting a proactive mindset, you can shop with confidence and peace of mind. Remember Scott’s advice: “Cybersecurity isn’t optional. It’s the key to protecting what matters most.”

This holiday season, stay vigilant, stay informed, and make cybersecurity a priority. Happy (and safe) shopping!