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KnowBe4's Top Cybersecurity Tips for the 2024 Holiday Season

As the joyous holiday season approaches, an underlying threat looms larger—cybercrime. This time of year often sees an uptick in scams and fraudulent schemes, with cybercriminals looking to exploit holiday consumers. In response to these growing threats, KnowBe4, a leader in human risk management, has released its top five cybersecurity recommendations designed to help individuals navigate the festive season safely.

The Holiday Risk Landscape

According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), the total number of reported complaints surged in 2023, surpassing 880,000. With losses totaling more than $12.5 billion, the data underlines the pressing need for vigilance as the holiday season kicks off. Among these complaints, phishing attacks continue to be the most common threat, where scammers use deceptive emails, texts, or calls to extract sensitive information from unsuspecting victims. Hence, the holiday buzz surrounding shopping and gifts can mask these malicious activities, making it even more crucial for consumers to adopt a proactive stance.

Top Five Cybersecurity Tips

To help consumers avoid falling victim to cybercriminals this holiday season, KnowBe4 has compiled a straightforward guide:

1. Beware of Fake Credit Card Alerts
Cybercriminals will frequently impersonate banks and financial institutions, sending messages regarding phantom suspicious activity. Before responding to any alert, always confirm its authenticity through official channels.

2. Look Out for Fake Charity Scams
While the holiday season is a time for giving, it also sees a rise in fake charity scams. It's essential to thoroughly research any charity before donating and to use official websites rather than responding to unsolicited appeals.

3. Caution with Sketchy Mobile Apps
During the holiday shopping spree, it's tempting to download holiday-themed applications. However, only apps from official app stores should be considered, and users should check reviews and app permissions carefully to avoid malware.

4. Skepticism Towards Unbelievable Discounts
If an online deal sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Extreme discounts can be traps designed to lure in victims. Always verify offers through the official retailer's site rather than acting on unsolicited messages promising amazing deals.

5. Stay Alert to Holiday Travel Scams
Fake listings for vacation rentals and enticing travel packages can surface during the holiday season. To avoid scams, book travel accommodations only through reputable agencies, and directly through recognized hotel chains and airlines.

Emphasizing Cyber Awareness

Stu Sjouwerman, CEO of KnowBe4, emphasizes the need for increased cybersecurity awareness during the holiday festivities, noting, "As we embrace the festive spirit, it is crucial to maintain a heightened sense of cybersecurity awareness. Our goal is to empower individuals and organizations with the knowledge to outsmart these digital threats and keep their holidays merry and secure."

In summary, while the holiday season brings about excitement and joy, it is a critical time for individuals to remain cautious and informed about potential cyber threats. Adopting KnowBe4's top tips will equip consumers with the knowledge necessary to navigate the tricky waters of online shopping and holiday communications safely. For more resources, KnowBe4 offers a video outlining these tips to bolster public awareness around cybersecurity. As the digital landscape evolves, staying informed is key to a safer holiday experience.

Conclusion

By understanding these potential scams and taking the necessary precautions, shoppers can enjoy a more relaxed and secure holiday shopping experience. Remember, awareness is your best defense against cyber threats!