The festive season is a time of joy, connection and giving – but unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting people. Staying vigilant can help ensure that cyber threats don’t dampen your celebrations.
Here are some common types of scams to watch out for and how to avoid them:
1. Phishing scams
Phishing involves scammers pretending to be a trusted business – such as a bank or delivery service – to steal personal information like passwords or bank details. These messages often look legitimate and may claim urgent issues like account problems or offer enticing rewards.
How to stay safe:
- Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited messages.
- Contact the business directly using details from their official website.
2. Fake invoices and billing scams
Scammers may send fake invoices, renewal notices or payment requests that look genuine to trick individuals or businesses into paying them.
How to stay safe:
- Verify invoices and payment requests by contacting the sender directly.
- Be cautious if a supplier suddenly changes their payment details.
3. Online shopping scams
Fake websites and fraudulent ads often emerge during the festive season, luring shoppers with deals that seem too good to be true. These scams may steal personal data or fail to deliver purchased items.
How to stay safe:
- Research sellers and check customer reviews before buying.
- Stick to trusted retailers and be cautious of offers that seem unrealistic.
4. Remote access scams
These scams involve fraudsters posing as technical support representatives, claiming issues with your computer or internet and requesting remote access to fix it.
How to stay safe:
- Never grant remote access to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- If in doubt, hang up and reach out to your service provider directly.
Protect yourself from scams
Scam attempts are a reality, but taking proactive steps can reduce your risk:
- Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
- Stay informed by visiting trusted sources like Scamwatch for the latest updates.
- Watch for warning signs like poor grammar, unusual requests or suspicious email addresses.
Our commitment to data protection
At CANE Financial, we prioritise your security. Our technology platform uses multi-factor authentication, encryption and 24/7 security monitoring to keep your data safe.
By staying alert and following these tips, you can enjoy a secure and scam-free festive season!