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Stay Cyber-Safe This Christmas
The festive season is a time for giving but unfortunately, it’s also prime time for cybercriminals. With more people shopping online and booking trips away, scammers are working overtime to exploit the holiday rush. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself this Christmas.
Why Vigilance Matters in 2025
Cybercrime has evolved. Fraudsters now use AI-powered tools to create convincing phishing messages, fake websites, and even deepfake endorsements. Spending is encouraged on the lead up to Christmas with Black Friday promotions and Christmas offers, its prime time for scammers to target citizens looking for Christmas shopping deals. Account takeover attempts and gift card scams surge, and travel booking fraud is becoming alarmingly sophisticated.
Always Remember to:
Stick to trusted retailers: Avoid deals that seem too good to be true or unfamiliar websites.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
Monitor your accounts: Set up transaction alerts and review statements regularly.
Beware of Christmas Travel Booking Scams
Many people like to book holidays at low prices during November and December. Scammers have been exploiting this. They are targeting popular platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb. They send customers messages via WhatsApp or through official-looking portals, urging you to “confirm your booking” or “to update your payment details.” These messages look genuine, but they are a scam.
How to Stay Safe:
- Never click links from unsolicited messages even if they look official.
- Verify directly in the app or website. Log in through the official platform, not via links.
- Watch for urgency tactics. Scammers often pressure you with phrases like “secure your booking now or your booking may be cancelled!”
General Cyber Hygiene for the Holidays
Update before your go: Make sure your phone, tablet, and apps have the latest updates before travelling or shopping online. Updates fix security gaps that hackers love to take advantage of.
Lock down your accounts: Use strong, unique passwords for each account. A password manager can make this easy.
Cybercriminals thrive on distraction, and the festive season is full of it. By staying alert, verifying links, and using secure practices, you can enjoy a stress-free Christmas without falling victim to scams.