Stay Safe This Holiday Season: Tips to Outsmart Cyber Grinches

The holidays are finally here! But while you're unwrapping joy and connecting with loved ones, remember that cybercriminals are also out in full force, eager to take advantage of the season. Don't let a "digital grinch" steal your identity or compromise your security. By being proactive and following a few key steps, you can enjoy a safe and secure holiday season. 

Whether you're traveling to see family or simply doing more online shopping, these tips will help you stay protected: 

Before You Deck the Halls (and Pack Your Bags): 

 

1. Fortify Your Digital Defenses: Update Your Software  
   Think of software updates as putting extra locks on your digital doors. Ensure you have the latest versions of your security software (antivirus, anti-malware), web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge), and operating system (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) installed on all your devices. These updates often include crucial security patches that protect against the latest threats. 
2. Don't Lose Your Memories (or Important Data)
   Back Up Your Information Imagine losing all your precious holiday photos or important documents! Regularly backing up your data to an external hard drive, USB drive, or a reputable cloud service is a smart practice year-round, but especially important before traveling. This ensures that even if something goes wrong with your device, your important information is safe. 
3. Lock It Down: Secure Your Devices with Strong Passwords  
   Get into the habit of locking your devices (laptops, smartphones, tablets) whenever you step away, even for a moment. More importantly, use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or pet names. Consider using a password manager to help you create and store complex passwords securely. 

On the Road and Online: Staying Secure While Traveling: 

 

1. Beware of Public Wi-Fi: Connect with Caution  
   Public Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafes, and hotels are a cybercriminal's playground. These networks are often unsecured, making it easy for malicious actors to intercept your data. Avoid conducting sensitive activities like online banking, shopping, or entering personal information on public Wi-Fi. If you must use it, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection. 
2. Think Before You Click: Spotting Suspicious Links and Emails  
   During the holidays, inboxes are flooded with promotional emails and online offers. Cybercriminals often disguise malicious links and attachments within these emails or even in social media posts. If an email or link seems suspicious, too good to be true, or comes from an unfamiliar sender, err on the side of caution and don't click on it. Verify the source independently if you have any doubts. 
3. Keep Your Devices Close: Guard Against Physical Theft  
   Don't leave your laptops, smartphones, or tablets unattended in public places. Theft is a real concern, and losing a device can also mean losing access to your sensitive information. Having a strong password or using biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) can help protect your data if your device is stolen. 
4. Pause Before You Post: Protect Your Privacy and Your Home  
   While it's tempting to share your holiday adventures in real-time, consider waiting to post photos and turning off location tagging on your social media. Announcing you're away from home can make you a target for break-ins. Sharing photos after you've returned is a safer way to share your memories without compromising your security.