With the holiday season approaching, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) urges the Georgia Tech community to be vigilant against cyber threats as online shopping and digital transactions surge.
The spike in seasonal shopping creates opportunities for cybercriminals, leading to an uptick in phishing attempts, fraudulent websites, and other deceptive tactics aimed at tricking unsuspecting shoppers.
"The increase in digital transactions during the holidays presents a prime opportunity for cybercriminals," warned Jennifer Rhodes, Georgia Tech's chief information security officer. "From fake websites to phishing scams, cybercriminals are working overtime. It's crucial to shop only on secure sites, double-check links, and trust your instincts when deals seem too good to be true to keep your information safe this season."
<h3>1. Stick to Reputable Websites</h3>
Always shop from well-known and trusted websites. Instead of clicking on links from emails, ads, or social media, manually type the retailer's URL directly into your browser. This ensures you're accessing the legitimate site and not a fake one designed to steal your information.
<h3>2. Verify Unknown Retailers</h3>
Cybercriminals often create fake websites that closely resemble legitimate ones. If you're unfamiliar with a retailer, take extra steps to verify its authenticity. Look up customer reviews, check for a physical address and contact details, and make sure they have clear return and privacy policies. Don’t be afraid to research a site thoroughly before making a purchase.
<h3>3. Be Skeptical of Emails Asking for Personal Information</h3>
Scammers often send phishing emails that seem to be from trusted businesses, asking you to confirm account or payment details. Legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information like this via email. Avoid clicking on email links and providing any personal data. Always go directly to the official website of the company to verify any requests.
<h3>4. Watch Out for Suspicious Deals and Offers</h3>
It's tempting to snag a deal that looks too good to be true, but such offers are often scams. If a deal seems overly generous, do a quick check on the company’s website or look for customer reviews to see if it's legitimate. Also, be cautious with "too low" shipping costs or incredibly discounted products. Always confirm package tracking numbers directly through trusted websites rather than relying on links from unfamiliar sources.
<h3>5. Use a Credit Card for Purchases</h3>
When shopping online, always prefer a credit card over a debit card. Credit cards typically offer more protection against fraudulent charges, limiting your liability if your card details are stolen. If you spot any suspicious activity on your credit card or bank statement, contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately. Additionally, file a report with local law enforcement to help protect yourself and others.
<h3>6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication</h3>
Many online retailers offer extra layers of security, like two-factor authentication (2FA). Enable this feature whenever possible to provide an extra layer of protection for your online accounts. This will require a secondary verification step (like a code sent to your phone) in addition to your regular password.
<h3>7. Update Your Software and Passwords Regularly</h3>
Ensure your devices and software are up to date with the latest security patches. Old versions of browsers, apps, and operating systems may have vulnerabilities that cyber-criminals can exploit. Additionally, change your passwords periodically and use strong, unique passwords for different sites to minimize your chances of becoming a victim of hacking.
