Black Friday and Cyber Monday: The Hidden Cybersecurity Risks You Can't Ignore

As shoppers prepare for the annual rush of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, the stakes have never been higher for cybersecurity. The allure of steep discounts and exclusive offers often leads consumers to let their guard down, creating a golden opportunity for cybercriminals to strike. In 2023, Canadians lost over $575 million to fraud, with online merchandise scams accounting for $12 million of that figure. This year, federal partners like the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSE), the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are sounding the alarm to keep shoppers vigilant.

Cyber scams during this high-traffic shopping season come in many forms. Fraudulent websites, too-good-to-be-true deals, and spoofed URLs are common tactics used to deceive consumers into handing over sensitive data or payments. Legitimate-looking but malicious sites can mimic popular brands, with slight changes in URLs like "Go0gle.com" instead of "Google.com" tricking even savvy shoppers.

To protect yourself, it’s essential to recognize red flags. Look for secure payment processes and verify that a site uses HTTPS with a padlock symbol in the browser’s address bar. Be wary of retailers that lack clear return policies, contact details, or privacy statements. These missing elements often signal that a website may not be legitimate.

Staying cyber-safe isn’t just about spotting scams; it’s also about taking proactive measures to secure your personal and financial information. Always make online purchases through secure, personal Wi-Fi networks and avoid saving credit card details in your browser. If you must shop on public networks, use cellular data or a virtual private network (VPN) to shield your transactions. Stick to retailers you trust, and do your due diligence by reading reviews before making a purchase.

At Directpath Global Technologies (DGT), we understand the evolving nature of cyber threats, especially during peak shopping periods. As a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP), we offer solutions like Web Application Firewalls (WAF) and Vulnerability Risk Management as a Service (VRMaaS) to help organizations protect their online platforms and safeguard customer data. With our advanced AI division, we tailor cybersecurity measures that not only protect but also optimize operations for businesses.

For consumers and businesses alike, the key to navigating this shopping season is vigilance. Remember the adage: if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay informed, stay cautious, and make this holiday shopping season a secure and joyous one. Source: Government of Canada