Protect Your Data Before Holiday Shopping Scams Strike
With the holiday season in full swing, especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the risk of online scams has heightened. Cybercriminals are leveraging the rush to secure deals to exploit leaked personal data, using it to create convincing phishing schemes and fake retail sites that mimic real brands. These fraudulent tactics often begin with the theft of data, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and addresses, which are sold by data brokers to be used in targeted attacks.
Data brokers compile detailed profiles of individuals, selling them to marketers and criminals alike. These profiles include personal details such as age, income, address history, and even shopping behavior, making it easier for scammers to craft personalized scams that feel authentic. For example, emails and texts sent to shoppers mimic messages from legitimate retailers, using the victim’s name, address, and other specifics that make them feel genuine.
Cybersecurity authorities like CISA report that online shopping scams increase significantly during this time, as users are more likely to be distracted or excited by deals, lowering their vigilance. ‘Phantom stores’ have also become a common tactic, with fake websites designed to look like those of well-known brands, such as IKEA, to trick users into entering their payment details. These scams often use URLs that are very close to the official ones, making it easy for unsuspecting shoppers to fall victim.
In addition, major platforms such as Temu and Amazon have become targets for scammers who use their courier services to send fake delivery alerts with phishing links. These links pose a risk of malware installation or data theft, highlighting the need for users to verify the authenticity of such messages. The article recommends checking for secure URLs and the legitimacy of the courier service by cross-referencing with the retailer’s official website.
Another critical point discussed is the extensive data collection by large retailers, which can lead to targeted marketing and potential misuse of personal information. An example is the Target data breach, where consumer behavior was predicted using collected data, leading to targeted promotions. Users are encouraged to be aware of what information is being collected about them and to request the removal of any personal data they do not want to be stored.
To combat the proliferation of these scams, the article emphasizes the importance of removing personal data from data broker databases, which are often the source of such information. Data removal services are suggested as an effective method to erase personal information from multiple websites, reducing the risk of being targeted. It is noted that while these services are not cheap, they offer significant peace of mind by actively monitoring and erasing personal data, thus limiting the information available for potential misuse.
Finally, the article outlines practical steps for users to protect themselves, such as using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and ensuring their online accounts are secure. These measures are intended to help users enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday shopping experience, free from the looming threats of cybercrime.