Cybersecurity Risks Surge as Black Friday Approaches for Retailers

Increasing Cyber Risks for Retailers This Black Friday

As the holiday shopping season approaches, retailers are gearing up for the chaos of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. However, this spirit of festive shopping brings a hidden risk: a surge in cyber threats aimed at retail organizations. According to a warning from KnowBe4, a leader in cybersecurity training, these peak shopping days set the stage for an increase in cyber incidents, which can lead to devastating business interruptions and damage to brand reputation.

The Perils of Peak Shopping

During these busy periods, retailers experience a dramatic uptick in digital traffic and email communications, placing immense pressure on their IT teams. The frenzy of activity creates a “perfect storm” for cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities. The report emphasizes that the retail sector has become a prime target for cyberattacks.

A snapshot of the statistics reveals a concerning trend. The 2025 Global Retail Report from KnowBe4 ranks the retail industry as one of the five most targeted sectors for cybersecurity threats. Alarmingly, the average cost of a data breach in this industry reached $3.48 million in 2024, illustrating a striking 18% increase from the previous year.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly cunning in their tactics as they gear up for the holiday rush. They typically employ deceptive techniques involving seemingly innocent messages. Common scams seen during this time include fake tech alerts, phony password resets, and fraudulent delivery notifications. These messages are designed to trick employees into clicking on malicious links or downloading attachments, which can introduce ransomware or spyware into the company’s systems, leading to severe data breaches.

One of the primary reasons these scams are effective during the holiday season is the added stress and distractions faced by retail employees. When overwhelmed, staff members are more likely to fall for scams that offer unrealistic promises or create a sense of urgency, making them the primary entry point for cyberattacks.

Creating a Culture of Security Awareness

In response to these significant threats, KnowBe4 suggests that retailers must adapt their organizational culture to better prepare for cyber risks. This strategy involves implementing continuous training programs focused on raising awareness about potential scams and fostering cybersecurity practices among employees. The report indicates that these training initiatives, including phishing simulations, can reduce the likelihood of employees engaging with harmful emails by as much as 88% over a 12-month period.

It is equally vital for employees to learn how to recognize and reject face-value requests that could compromise company resources. This ongoing education empowers retail workers to understand the tactics employed by cybercriminals, reducing the firm’s vulnerability.

“Black Friday creates the perfect storm for cybercriminals,” states Javvad Malik, lead CISO advisor at KnowBe4. When employees feel rushed and are dealing with high workloads, they become far more susceptible to clicking on malicious links or authorizing dubious transactions. To address this, retailers must prioritize not just technological solutions but also workforce preparation and clear communication regarding security protocols.

Beyond Training: Effective CyberDefense Measures

In addition to enhanced training, KnowBe4 advocates for the enforcement of robust security policies, diligent review of communication channels, and the implementation of multi-factor authentication (MFA). Real-time coaching and automated phishing alerts can assist in immediate responses to fraudulent activities, which are critical for maintaining business continuity and protecting brand integrity.

Ultimately, the key to navigating this treacherous period lies in a proactive approach to cybersecurity—both at the employee level and across the broader organizational strategy. By fostering an environment where employees are vigilant and informed about potential risks, retailers can protect themselves against the myriad of threats that arise during the chaotic holiday shopping season.

In conclusion, as we approach Black Friday, retailers must recognize the amplified cyber risks and take comprehensive steps to safeguard their operations and customer data. With adequate training and strong security protocols in place, businesses can bolster their defenses and emerge from the holiday season unscathed. For more information, visit KnowBe4’s website at knowbe4.com.