Cyber Attacks Increase on Black Friday - Be Vigilant

We have compiled a few key tips to help you and your business when shopping or working online

Use Trusted Websites
Stick to reputable and well-known websites. Make sure it’s the right site and not a lookalike site. Check spellings etc to make sure it’s the site you think it is.

Check web site security
Before entering personal or payment information, make sure the website is secure. Look for "https://" and a padlock icon

Ensure device software is up to date
Ensure that your operating system, antivirus software, and browsers are up to date. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities are often patched in these updates.

Secure your devices
Consider using security features like device encryption.

Use strong passwords
Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using the same password across multiple sites. Password management software can help with this.

Enable Multi Factor Authentication (MFA)
Whenever possible, enable MFA for your online accounts.

Beware of Phishing
Be cautious of emails, messages or advertisements that seem suspicious. Cybercriminals often use phishing techniques to trick users into providing sensitive information. Phishing emails can look convincing but the senders email address is often a giveaway.

Be wary of Public WiFi
Avoid making online purchases when connected to public Wi-Fi networks. These networks open your employees to malware, encrypted networks, Man In The Middle attacks and more. If you need to shop on the go, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.

Log out after making a purchase
Always log out of your accounts after making a purchase, especially if you are using a shared computer or device.

Use credit cards
Credit cards generally offer better fraud protection than debit cards. They often have more robust security features and you are typically not held responsible for fraudulent charges.

Check your bank and credit card accounts
Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. If you notice anything unusual, contact your bank immediately.