10 Ways to Protect Yourself from Phishing Scams During the Holidays

Don't Get Phished for the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for joy, gift-giving, and spending time with loved ones—but it’s also prime time for cybercriminals looking to take advantage of the hustle and bustle. Phishing scams are more common than ever, and they can be tricky to spot. These scams often disguise themselves as emails, texts, or social media messages from trusted brands, enticing you with fake offers or urgent requests for personal information. I’m going to go over some ways to avoid these sneaky scammers but first let’s discuss what “phishing” even is. 

What is Phishing? 

Phishing is a cyberattack where fraudsters impersonate trusted organizations or individuals to steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, or personal data. These scams often come in the form of emails, texts, or fake websites that look legitimate but are designed to trick you. 
​During the holidays, phishing attempts may involve: 

• Fake online store promotions or discounts. 
• Bogus shipping notifications claiming delivery issues. 
• Fraudulent charity donation requests. 
• “Urgent” account security alerts from banks or retailers. 

Here are some tips to help you stay safe and avoid falling victim to phishing scams this holiday season: 

1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Emails or Messages 
If you receive an unexpected email or text offering huge discounts, urgent updates, or gift card giveaways, take a moment to pause. Genuine businesses won’t ask for personal information via email or text, especially around the holidays. Check the sender’s email address carefully—scammers often use addresses that look like legitimate ones, but may have small misspellings or strange domain names.

2. Hover Over Links Before Clicking 

Before clicking any link in an email, hover your mouse over it to see where it leads. If the URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match the official website, don’t click it. Scammers often create fake websites that look identical to popular brands but with slight differences in the URL. 

3. Look for Red Flags in the Message 

Phishing messages often have poor grammar, awkward phrasing, or spelling mistakes. They may also create a sense of urgency—like saying your account has been compromised or you need to act quickly to claim a prize. These are all red flags. Take a moment to think before clicking or responding. 

4. Don’t Share Personal Information 

Avoid providing personal or financial details over email or text, especially if you didn’t initiate the contact. Genuine companies will never ask you for sensitive information this way. If you’re unsure, contact the company directly through their official website or customer service number to verify the request. 

5. Keep Your Software Updated 

Make sure your devices are equipped with the latest security updates. Software updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities that scammers exploit to access your personal data. Keeping your systems up to date is an easy way to protect yourself. 

6. Use Multi-Factor Authentication 

Many services offer multi-factor authentication (MFA), which adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. With MFA, even if a scammer steals your password, they still need access to a second form of verification—like a code sent to your phone—to access your account. Enable MFA wherever possible to make it harder for scammers to succeed. 

7. Verify Suspicious Requests 

If you receive an unexpected message asking for payment, a donation, or account verification, verify it before acting. Call the company directly using a number you know is legitimate--don’t use the contact details in the suspicious email or message. 

8. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi 

Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes or airports, can be hotspots for cybercriminals to intercept your data. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts or making financial transactions when connected to unsecured Wi-Fi. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for extra security. 

9. Monitor Your Financial Accounts 

Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unusual or unauthorized transactions. Phishing scams can lead to identity theft or fraudulent purchases, so catching these issues early can prevent further damage. Setting up alerts for transactions can help you spot problems faster. 

10. Educate Family and Friends 

Make sure everyone in your household, especially older relatives who may not be as tech-savvy, knows how to spot a phishing scam. Sharing your knowledge can help prevent someone you care about from falling victim to fraud. 

The holidays should be about joy and connection, not dealing with the aftermath of a scam. By staying vigilant and following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safer, stress-free season. And remember, if something feels off, it’s always better to double-check than risk compromising your personal information. Stay safe, and happy holidays! 

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