Holiday Phishing Scams: How to Stay Cyber-Safe This Festive Season
The holiday season is upon us, which is usually a time for giving, connecting, and celebrating — but unfortunately, it’s also prime time for cybercriminals. Every year, phishing attacks spike during the holidays – starting with Black Friday and Cyber Monday – taking advantage of busy shoppers, generous donors, and distracted employees. Whether you’re clicking through online sales or managing year-end finances, knowing how to spot and stop phishing attempts can keep your data — and your holiday spirit — safe. Why Phishing Increases During the Holidays Cybercriminals know people are more likely to let their guard down this time of year. A few reasons phishing thrives during the holidays include: According to cybersecurity reports, phishing email volume can increase by up to 80% during the holiday season. Common Types of Holiday Phishing Scams Here are some of the most frequent scams seen between November and January: How to Protect Yourself and Your Organization The good news: A few smart habits can protect you from most phishing threats. A Secure Season Starts with Awareness The holidays should be a time of joy, not digital danger. By staying alert to phishing tactics and sharing these best practices with your colleagues, friends, and family, you can ensure a safer, stress-free holiday season online. Remember: When something sounds too good to be true — or too urgent to wait — it’s probably a phish.