Easter is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time when cyber scammers try to catch us off guard. They might send you spammy emails featuring too-good-to-be-true deals on Easter treats or e-cards, or they might try to trick you into giving up sensitive info with sneaky texts. You might even receive emails about package shipments or orders you didn’t make and see fake giveaways or charity requests on social media. And don’t be fooled by those last-minute travel deals that seem too good to pass up.
To make sure your identity, finances, and family celebrations stay safe this Easter, here are eight essential cybersecurity tips that you should keep in mind.
1. Be a savvy bunny: Look closely at any Easter-themed emails or texts. If they ask for your private data or credit card information or seem just a bit off, trust your instincts. Remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Keep your devices and software up to date. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software, so make sure your devices are running the latest versions of their operating systems and software applications.
3. Spread the help responsibly: Feeling charitable this Easter? Do some research and support local or international charities that are making a real difference.
4. Don’t click on strange eggs: Be cautious when opening e-cards or attachments from unsolicited emails. They might contain sneaky Trojans or spyware.
5. Shop smart: When hunting for the perfect Easter gift online, stick to secure connections and platforms you trust. Use a security solution and VPN to avoid fake or malicious websites.
6. Keep your plans on the down-low: Be mindful of what you share on social media. Oversharing personal information, like your location or travel plans, could make you an easy target.
7. Lock up your digital burrow: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts, and turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible for an extra layer of security.
8. Guard your carrot stash: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card accounts for any suspicious transactions. If you spot any, hop on over to your financial institution and let them know.
Bonus tip: Get the whole family involved in staying safe online. Share news articles and trusting blogs about the latest scams and phishing attempts so everyone knows what to watch for during the Easter season.
Now that you’re armed with these essential tips, you can relax and enjoy the festivities without worrying about falling victim to any sneaky Easter scams.
Stay safe, and have a happy Easter.