The holiday season is right around the corner, and unfortunately it’s ringing in an uptick in cyber attacks. Cybercriminals often take advantage of the holiday rush, knowing that teams are busy meeting deadlines or are out of the office celebrating. Anyone who receives emails is vulnerable to phishing and other types of cyber attacks, particularly during this time of year.
To avoid falling victim to these threats, make sure to confirm any request or communication that feels out of the ordinary. If you receive an email with an urgent request, especially one involving financial transactions or sensitive data, always verify the request through a different communication channel, such as a phone call or a direct message to a trusted colleague. Taking this extra step can help protect your organization from falling prey to scams.
Additionally, be extra cautious of clicking an email attachment. PDFs and files like spreadsheets that can run macros especially can contain embedded scripts that execute malicious actions once opened. Be alert for unexpected attachments, especially if the email seems unfamiliar or unsolicited. If you didn’t expect the document, it’s worth double-checking its legitimacy before clicking.
Finally, be careful with your personal email account. Even though it’s separate from your work inbox, cybercriminals may still target you through personal channels to gain access to your professional life. If you receive an unexpected email with attachments or links, take a moment to verify it’s genuine before engaging with the content. Making sure your accounts have unique, strong passwords will also help protect your accounts.
By staying vigilant and verifying communications, you can help protect both your personal and professional security this holiday season.
