The holiday season is a time of togetherness and sharing. However, it is also a period when cybercriminals are especially active, as they take advantage of the festive atmosphere to target internet users.
With the rise in fraudulent emails, fake websites and various scams, it is important to be vigilant to protect your personal information and your peace of mind.
This article aims to help you recognize the most common traps while providing you with practical advice so that you can adopt the right habits and enjoy the holiday season in complete safety.
How to recognize fake websites and suspicious messages?
An email supposedly from Amazon, a text message claiming to be from Canada Post, a message announcing a contest win… These are examples of communications you might receive during the holidays. How do you distinguish the real from the fake?
Check the link address (domain). An official website looks like this:
- Amazon.ca or amazon.com
- Logistics.amazon.ca (it is not an official Amazon website, it is a subdomain of “logistics.com”).
Tip: Make sure the official address comes right before the extension (“.com”, “.ca”, etc.).
One click can change everything: Adopt the right habits!
| Good practices to adopt | Behaviours to avoid |
|---|---|
| On a computer, hover your cursor over the links to see their true destination before deciding to click. | Clicking on links without verifying first. |
| On a mobile device, long press on links to verify the actual address before opening them. | Opening links received via text message or email without verifying first. |
| Disable automatic link opening in email settings. | Opening links automatically as soon as they appear in a message. |
| Use only official stores to download applications (Google Play and App Store). | Installing applications from unverified links received via text message or email. |
| Never share personal information via email or text message. | Sharing identifiers, passwords or confidential data. |
| Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true or messages that create a sense of urgency. | Believing messages that announce a win, a refund or the arrival of an urgent package without verification. |
| Seek advice from a professional, a colleague or the IT department if you have any doubts. | Reacting right away without making sure the message is real. |
Cybersecurity during the holiday season isn’t just about personal protection; it’s a shield for your whole family as well as your colleagues and organization. By being vigilant and learning to recognize fraud attempts, you become a key player in cybersecurity. Outsmarting cybercriminals will allow you to enjoy this time of year with complete confidence and peace of mind.