The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author.
As we approach the highly anticipated holiday shopping season, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, it’s crucial that consumers stay vigilant against the growing wave of cyber threats. While these shopping events offer tempting deals, they also present golden opportunities cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting buyers.
In this digital age, the responsibility to protect American consumers from these threats is shared by several US agencies, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Security Agency (NSA) .
Under the Biden administration, there has been a notable increase in cyber attacks targeting both retailers and consumers. This upswing requires greater attention to cyber security, not only by the government and security agencies, but also by individuals. It is a shared responsibility, where being informed and cautious plays a key role in defense.
Since the beginning of 2021, several new forms of cyber attacks have emerged. One prominent method involves the creation of fake retail websites. These websites mimic legitimate online stores, offering high-demand products at significantly discounted prices. However, their real purpose is to steal sensitive personal and financial information from buyers. Often, victims won’t know they’ve been victimized until long after the attack has taken place and they receive their credit card statement.
Another growing concern is the various forms of adware which redirects consumers to fake merchandise sites. Unsuspecting users are lured away from legitimate online shopping platforms to these deceptive websites, where their information becomes vulnerable to theft.
Another common scam is related to solicitations from supposed email providers for users change your password. The email in question takes users to a fake site that collects a person’s sensitive information. Unfortunately, people are often victims, but once they are aware, they should do so immediately update your login credentials.
Social media users are also at greater risk this season, especially Facebook account holders, as a new breakthrough malicious advertising The outline was observed darting around 140 NodeStealer ad campaigns adorned with attractive images of women that initiated the download of a malicious payload to the user’s device. These incidents highlight the ever-present danger in the world of online shopping and the need for constant vigilance.
CISA, the NSA, and other cybersecurity agencies play a critical role in protecting American consumers. Their responsibilities include monitoring cyber threats, issuing warnings about new forms of attack and providing guidance to both businesses and individuals on how to protect themselves from these threats.
For example, CISA regularly post notices and security tips, especially during the holiday shopping season, to educate the public about potential cyber threats. The NSA contributes by focusing on foreign cyber threats and providing critical insights that help shape national cybersecurity strategies.
As consumers prepare for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, here are some essential tips to help safeguard your personal and financial information:
Verify the authenticity of the website: Before making a purchase, make sure the website is legitimate. Check for correct URLs and look for trust stamps.
Use secure payment methods: Opt for credit cards or secure online payment services. Avoid using debit cards as they offer fewer fraud protections.
Beware of offers that are too good to be true: Extraordinary offers can be a trap. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Update your security software: Keep your antivirus and antimalware software up to date to protect against the latest threats.
Use strong passwords: Create unique and complex passwords for different online accounts and consider using a password manager.
Enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for attackers to gain access to your accounts.
Monitor your accounts: Periodically check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions.
Beware of phishing emails: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or suspicious emails.
Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi: A virtual private network (VPN) can provide a secure connection and protect your data on public networks.
Stay informed: Follow updates from reputable cyber security agencies and be aware of the latest scams.
While this may be the “best time of the year,” the holiday shopping season, while full of exciting deals and offers, also comes with an increased risk of cyberattacks. Collaborative efforts by US agencies such as CISA, NSA and others are crucial to mitigating these threats. However, consumers must also do their part by staying informed and adopting safe online shopping practices. By doing so, we can all ensure a safer shopping experience.
Julio Rivera is a business and political strategist, cybersecurity researcher, and political commentator and columnist. His writing, focused on cybersecurity and politics, is regularly published by many of the world’s most respected news organizations.
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