The festive season is a time of joy, generosity and connection. Families reunite, friends exchange gifts, and communities come together to celebrate.
But while we prepare for festivities, cybercriminals are also getting ready, waiting to exploit the excitement and distractions of the season.
Every year, thousands fall victim to online fraud, phone scams, and social engineering tactics. This year, let’s make vigilance a part of our celebrations.
WHY SCAMS INCREASE DURING THE HOLIDAYS
The holidays see an increase in online shopping, digital payments, and charitable donations.
Scammers are aware of this and use sophisticated tricks to lure unsuspecting individuals.
Fake websites imitate legitimate retailers, phishing emails promise unbelievable discounts, and fraudulent calls claim urgent account issues.
Social engineering – the act of manipulating people into revealing sensitive information – remains one of their most effective tools.
Technology can protect us to some degree, but human behaviour in most instances is the weakest link. Scammers target trust, urgency, and emotion. A friendly voice on the phone asking for your banking details, an email warning of account suspension, or a link promising a festive giveaway – these are designed to make you act before you think.
TYPES OF SCAMS
Business email compromise (BEC) scams exploit the fact that so many of us rely on email to conduct business – both personal and professional – and it’s one of the most financially damaging online crimes.
Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information, like your credit card details or any unique identifiable code linked to you via an institution and uses it to commit theft or fraud.
Ransomware is a type of malicious software, or malware, that prevents you from accessing your computer files, systems, or networks and demands you pay a ransom for their return.
Spoofing and phishing are schemes aimed at tricking you into providing sensitive information to scammers.
COMMON RED FLAGS
– Unsolicited calls or messages requesting personal or banking details.
– Emails or links with minor spelling errors or unfamiliar domains.
– Offers that seem too good to be true or urgent payment requests.
– Requests for OTPs or passwords – legitimate companies will never ask for these.
HOW TO STAY SAFE
– Verify before trusting: Confirm the source of any request, especially if it involves money or personal data.
– Shop wisely: Use reputable websites and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
– Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
– Keep your devices updated: Regular updates fix vulnerabilities scammers might exploit.
– Educate your family: Share these tips with loved ones, particularly the elderly and young people, who are often targeted.
What do you do when you are scammed?
Immediately inform your service provider. And/or report the matter to the police.
COST OF COMPLACENCY
Falling victim to a scam can mean more than just financial loss, it can lead to identity theft, emotional distress, and months of recovery.
Prevention is always better than cure.
A few moments of caution can save you from months of regret.
- John Ekongo is the corporate affairs manager at MTC.
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