'Tis the Season to be Jolly, Not Hacked: Your Trusted Internet Holiday Shopping Guide
The holidays are here, and with them come festive cheer, family gatherings... and a surge in online shopping. While you're hunting for the perfect gifts, cybercriminals are hunting for your personal and financial information. But don't worry! Trusted Internet is here to help you navigate the digital shopping landscape safely and securely.
Deck the Halls with Cybersecurity:
1. Shop on Secure Sites:
Look for the lock: Always ensure the website address starts with "https" and has a padlock icon in the address bar. This indicates a secure connection.
Beware of deals that seem too good to be true: Scammers often lure victims with incredibly low prices on popular items. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Stick to reputable retailers: Shop with well-known and trusted online stores. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or social media posts.
2. Guard Your Personal Information:
Use strong passwords, and where possible, use MFA: Create unique, complex passwords for each online account. If the system offers multi-factor authentication, use it.
Beware of phishing scams: Be wary of emails or texts asking for personal information or login credentials.
Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity.
3. Protect Your Devices:
Keep your software updated: Install the latest security updates for your operating system and web browser.
Use a reputable antivirus and anti-malware program: This will help protect your devices from malicious software.
Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi: Avoid making online purchases or accessing sensitive information while connected to public Wi-Fi.
4. Shop Smart with Mobile Devices:
Only download apps from official app stores: Avoid downloading apps from third-party sources.
Be mindful of app permissions: Pay attention to the permissions an app requests and only grant access to what is necessary.
Use a mobile security app: This can help protect your device from malware and other threats.
5. Give the Gift of Cybersecurity:
Consider giving cybersecurity gifts: A password manager, VPN subscription, or security software can make great gifts for friends and family.
Educate your loved ones: Share these cybersecurity tips with your family and friends to help them stay safe online.
Trusted Internet is Here to Help:
Beyond these tips, Trusted Internet offers a range of cybersecurity services to protect you and your business this holiday season and beyond:
Vulnerability Assessments: Identify weaknesses in your systems before attackers do.
Threat Detection and Response: Monitor for and respond to cyber threats in real time.
Security Awareness Training: Empower your employees to recognize and avoid cyber threats.
Incident Response: Get expert help in case of a cyberattack.
Don't let cybercriminals steal your holiday cheer. Follow these tips, stay vigilant, and contact Trusted Internet for all your cybersecurity needs.
From all of us at Trusted Internet, LLC in Amherst, NH, we wish you a safe, secure, and happy holiday season!
staysafeonline@trustedinternet.io