The holidays are a magical time of year – work celebrations, family gatherings and the promise of a new year filled with opportunities. But while you’re busy spreading holiday cheer, cyber criminals are working overtime, looking for vulnerabilities to exploit.
At Oxford Edge, we’re not just about crunching numbers; we’re here to help you safeguard your finances and personal information year-round. As forward-thinking accountants, we understand that cyber security is a critical part of protecting your hard-earned money and business. So here are some tips to keep you safe this holiday season.
Watch Out for Phishing Scams: ‘Tis the Season for Fake Emails
The inboxes are alive with the sound of fake holiday deals, urgent payment requests and even faux charitable donation links. Scammers are banking on you being distracted so be extra cautious with your clicks. Tip: Verify all emails that ask for sensitive information or payments. Hover over links to check their destination and only engage with trusted sources.
Secure Your Online Shopping: Only the Real Deals, Please
Online shopping is a holiday must but it’s also a prime hunting ground for hackers. Stick to reputable websites and always look for the “https” and padlock icon in the URL before entering payment details. Tip: Use credit cards instead of debit cards for an extra layer of fraud protection.
Update Your Password Game: Out with the Old, In with the Secure
If your passwords could win a ‘Most Predictable’ award, it’s time for an upgrade. Cyber criminals love weak passwords so create ones that are long, unique and full of variety. Tip: A password manager is a simple way to create and securely store strong passwords across all your accounts.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Double the Protection, Double the Peace of Mind
Make it harder for cyber criminals to access your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). It’s like a second lock on your digital front door. Tip: Use an authentication app like Google Authenticator for even stronger protection than SMS-based codes.
Beware of Public Wi-Fi: Not All Connections Are Jolly
Holiday travel often means hopping onto public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels or cafés. Unfortunately, these networks can be prime spots for hackers. Tip: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi to encrypt your connection.
Keep Your Devices Updated: Stay Ahead of the Cyber Grinch
Outdated software can leave your devices vulnerable to attacks. Before settling in for some holiday fun, make sure your devices are up to date with the latest security patches. Tip: Enable automatic updates to ensure you never miss critical security fixes.
Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an Eye on the Numbers
Holiday spending is a given, but unauthorised charges shouldn’t be. Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for any unusual activity. Tip: Set up transaction alerts for real-time updates on any spending activity.
At Oxford Edge, we’re committed to helping you safeguard your financial health, your peace of mind and your holiday joy. So, shop smart, stay vigilant and let’s make this season merry, bright and cyber-safe.
