The festive season is a wonderful time to connect with loved ones, shop for gifts, and share holiday cheer online. But while the internet makes all of this easier, it also brings new risks especially during this busy time of year when online scams and cybercriminals become more active.

Here are some simple ways to stay safe online this festive season:

1. Be cautious of festive scams

Scammers often take advantage of the holiday rush. Beware of:

• Fake shopping websites offering deals that seem “too good to be true.”
• Phishing emails, whatsapps or sms’s pretending to be from delivery companies or banks.
• Messages or links on social media promising prizes or gift cards.

If you’re unsure about a message or email, don’t click any links, rather go directly to the company’s official website or contact their customer service.

2. Shop safely online

• Only buy from trusted, well-known retailers.
• Look for “https://” at the start of the web address that “s” stands for secure.
• Use a credit card or secure payment platform (like PayPal) instead of direct EFTs.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for online shopping or banking.

3. Protect your personal information

Never share your ID number, passwords, or banking details via email or text message. If a company requests personal details that don’t seem necessary, double-check whether it’s legitimate before responding.

4. Strengthen your passwords

• Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Avoid using easy-to-guess passwords like your birthday or pet’s name.
• Change your passwords regularly and consider using a password manager if you find it difficult to remember them all.

5. Beware of online “friends”

Social media can get lively during the festive season, but be careful who you connect with.

• Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know.
• Avoid sharing personal plans like “I’m away on holiday”, it could alert criminals that your home is empty.
• Adjust your privacy settings so only your real friends can see your posts.

6. Keep your devices updated

Make sure your smartphone, tablet, and computer are all running the latest software. Updates often include important security fixes that protect you from hackers and viruses.

7. Talk about online safety

If you’re unsure about something online, ask a trusted friend, family member, or caregiver for advice. Scammers rely on people acting quickly – taking a moment to check can save you from becoming a victim.

Stay safe, stay connected

The internet helps us share the joy of the festive season from video calls with grandchildren to sending digital cards. By staying alert and following these simple tips, you can enjoy the best of the online world while keeping your information secure. Stay smart, stay safe, and have a wonderful festive season!

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