The holiday season brings a significant increase in online shopping, digital greetings, and the use of devices on the go. While this period is full of excitement, it also represents a peak moment for cybercriminals, who take advantage of the high volume of transactions and the urgency of users to launch more sophisticated fraud and phishing campaigns.
At METRICA, we recently explored this topic in a social media post where we highlighted the most common risks and shared practical recommendations. In this article, we expand on that information to help you enjoy a safer digital experience during the holidays.
The main cybersecurity risks during the holidays
Each year, December brings a surge in cyber threats aimed at tricking users and capturing personal or financial information. Some of the most common risks include:
Holiday phishing attempts
Emails, SMS messages, or social media notifications that impersonate delivery services, retailers, or digital platforms to steal login credentials or sensitive data.
Fake stores and unrealistic offers
Websites designed to look like legitimate retailers, offering irresistible discounts and safe-looking purchase flows but created solely to steal data or payments.
Malware in digital greetings
Links or attachments embedded in holiday cards, ads, or messages that can download malicious software onto your devices.
Unsecure public Wi-Fi networks
Open connections in airports, cafés, or shopping centers that allow attackers to intercept user traffic and capture information.
How to enjoy a safer digital holiday season
Below are three essential recommendations to help you minimize risks and stay protected during the festive period:
1. Verify links and messages before opening them
The holidays are the perfect time for fraudulent promotions or fake shipping notifications to circulate. Before clicking, always check the sender, the URL, and any unusual details.
2. Shop only at official, trusted retailers
Confirm that the website is legitimate and secure: check the URL, look for “https://,” and ensure the site truly belongs to the brand. Avoid “too good to be true” deals — they usually are.
3. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks
When making online purchases, accessing banking platforms, or tracking packages, use your mobile data or a private connection. Open networks are one of the most exploited attack points this time of year.
A safer holiday season starts with good digital habits
At METRICA, we believe in the importance of promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness and prevention. The holiday season is an ideal moment to reinforce safe practices and avoid becoming a victim of unnecessary risks.
Protecting our information not only ensures a safer online experience but also helps build a more responsible digital environment for everyone.
