As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the joyous moments spent with family and friends, exchanging gifts and creating memories. However, it’s crucial to be mindful that cybercriminals are also eager to exploit the season’s distracting and merry atmosphere for their malicious schemes. As an expert managed service provider, we’re familiar with cyber Grinches and how they operate. Here are five common holiday scams and how to avoid them this holiday season.

1. Package Delivery Scams: Unwrapping the Deception

With an estimated three billion packages shipped during 2021’s holiday season, it’s no surprise that cybercriminals have devised scams related to package deliveries. Beware of suspicious texts or phishing emails urging you to click on links for fake reasons such as tracking updates or payment preferences. 

These well-crafted messages may lead to malware installation, capturing passwords or identity theft. Combat this by visiting the shipper’s website directly or calling using verified phone numbers, avoiding potentially harmful links.

And, if you want to increase your cyber security easily at home, check out our free Password Management Guide for insights on weak passwords and how to deter cybercriminals with strong passwords.

2. Missed Package Scams: Knock, Knock, Fraud at Your Door

Ever received a note claiming a missed package delivery? Criminals exploit this common frustration by leaving notes on doors and providing phone numbers for rescheduling. 

Resist the urge to call the number directly. Instead, scrutinize the notice for errors, check recent orders and verify through the company’s official customer service number on their website.

3. Gift Card Holiday Scams: Unwrapping the Unusual Requests

‘Tis the season for gift cards, and scammers are well aware. Be cautious of requests, even from seemingly familiar sources (like a grandchild or coworker), asking you to purchase multiple gift cards for work-related functions or personal reasons. Always verify unusual requests by reaching out directly to the person through a trusted phone number.

4. Social Media Scams: The Grinch on Your Newsfeed

Holiday-themed promotions or contests on social media might offer tempting rewards, but beware of giving up your cyber security for a too-good-to-be-true prize. Fake surveys and malware-laden posts could compromise your personal information. 

Exercise extra caution with generous offers on social media and refrain from engaging with suspicious content.

5. “Brushing” Scams: A Curious Case of Mystery Packages

Ever received an unexpected package from an online marketplace you didn’t order? While it might seem like a holiday gift, it’s likely part of a “brushing” scam. 

You might be tempted to think it’s a random act of kindness from a stranger, paying it forward.

However, the reality is far less heartwarming. The sender likely operates on online marketplaces and aims to fabricate positive reviews for their products. To post a review, the marketplace usually requires a legitimate tracking number indicating a successful delivery. 

Here’s where your unsolicited mystery package plays a role.

The fraudster might have created an online account for you on the marketplace or hijacked your existing one. To safeguard yourself, report the activity to the marketplace and promptly change your password if you have an account on the site. 

And, check out our cyber security essentials checklist for more cyber security tips.

Taking Action: Your Defense Against Holiday Scams

If you fall victim to a scam or even encounter one, take swift action to minimize damage:

1. Report to local law enforcement. Inform local authorities about the incident.
2. Alert banks and credit institutions. Secure your financial accounts by notifying relevant institutions.
3. File a complaint with the FBI. Report cybercrimes to the FBI for further investigation.
4. Report to the FTC: Help others by reporting scams to the Federal Trade Commission.

Remember, staying informed and proactive is the key to a joyful, scam-free holiday season. While we hope you enjoy the festivities without the stress of dealing with fraud, being aware and prepared is the best gift you can give yourself this holiday season. 

If you encounter holiday scams, reporting them not only helps you but also protects others from falling prey to cyber criminals. And, if you have any questions about the latest cyber security threats, contact us or book a meeting. 

Stay safe and secure this holiday season!