Avoid the 12 Scams of the Holidays

As Halloween has passed and the World Series is over (congratulations to the Houston Astros) we now enter the holiday season and you've probably noticed the Christmas decorations already going up in stores. During this time of year people tend to be more giving, generous, and open-hearted. However, the holiday spirit brings a double-edged sword when it comes to online shopping. Sure it's convenient and easy but don't let your guard down. Every year the number of online fraudulent activities increases and the crooks find more and more ways to try to scam you.

Here is a list of 12 holiday scams to be mindful of this holiday season.

1. Getting e-Carded. Avoid the unwanted gift of malware by verifying e-cards are actually from someone you know and are also from a trustworthy site.
2. Year in Review Traps. While a "Year in Review" sounds entertaining to read, clicking on these links in email or on websites could lead to malware getting installed on your devices.
3. Holiday Travel Scams. Avoid fake online or email deal links offering low price airfare or hotels that could be a trap; think before you click. If it seems to good to be true...probably is. You can always call the agency for verification.
4. Deceptive Advertising. Beware of deals that are too good to be true as they could steal your personal information and ruin your holiday cheer.
5. Chilling Charities. "Tis the season to donate, but be wary of fake charities. Do your research and double check the site URL. Especially with all that's happened this year (floods, fires, hurricanes, etc.)
6. Buyer Beware. Check your credit card statements frequently! You should be doing this anyway to make sure you don't have any unwanted charges as a result of a point-of-sale breach (think Target, TJ Max, or Walmart).
7. You've Got Mail! Think twice before clicking links in shipping notification emails, and alwasy verify the shipping company before giving out your personal information.
8. iScams. Smartphones not only act as a phone, but also a credit card, house key, camera, GPS, etc. Malware can access your mobile device through apps, so do your research and stick with official app store downloads.
9. Bank Robocall Scam. Be suspicious of phone calls from people claiming your computer is infected and then request your personal information to fix it. Microsoft and Google will not call you if you have a virus!
10. ATM Skimming. Beware of using obscure automated teller machines (ATMs); skimmer devices designed to steal data off the card are easy to install on unmonitored systems. Even be careful when using ATMs in very public places as thieves are practiced and can quickly install a skimmer just about anywhere. If you need cash for shopping or to have on hand, I recommend going to your local bank and withdrawing it in person or at one of their ATMs.
11. BYO...Device. With the hustle and bustle of the season, smartphones could easily be lost or stolen. Don't leave your smartphone unattended during this hectic time of year. It probably has all of your personal and possibly even work information on it which I'm sure you wouldn't want to lose.
12. USB Blues. Everyone likes free but be wary when someone offers you a free USB stick or card. This is an easy way for hackers to not just infect your system with malware but also gain access to your system without your knowledge.

Dennis London is the President and Founder of London Security Solutions based in Fountain Valley, CA. His company, London Security is an award winning and nationally recognized leader in the Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) market space. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post them here or email them to info@londonsecuritysolutions.com.