During the holiday season, there is typically a 30% to 40% increase in cyber attacks. Cybercriminals take advantage of the fact that many employees are out of the office, and IT teams may be operating with reduced staff.
The Increased Risks of Cyber Attacks Over the Christmas Period
As the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to a well-deserved break, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying the holiday cheer. However, it’s important to remember that cybercriminals don’t take holidays. In fact, the Christmas period is a prime time for cyber attacks, with a significant increase in malicious activities. This is largely because many people are away from their desks, accessing emails and work systems via their phones, and may not be as vigilant as usual.
Why Cyber Attacks Increase During the Holidays
During the holiday season, there is typically a 30% to 40% increase in cyber attacks. Cybercriminals take advantage of the fact that many employees are out of the office, and IT teams may be operating with reduced staff. This creates an ideal environment for launching attacks, as there are fewer people to detect and respond to suspicious activities. Additionally, the increased use of personal devices to access work emails and systems can lead to security vulnerabilities.
Top 5 Tips to Stay Secure Over the Christmas Period
- Be Cautious with Emails: Phishing attacks are common during the holidays. Be wary of unexpected emails, especially those asking for sensitive information or containing links and attachments. Verify the sender’s identity before clicking on any links or downloading attachments.
- Use Strong Passwords: Ensure that all your accounts are protected with strong, unique passwords. Consider using a password manager to keep track of your passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.
- Update Your Software: Make sure all your devices and software are up to date with the latest security patches. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems.
- Secure Your Devices: If you’re accessing work systems from personal devices, ensure they are secure. Use antivirus software, enable firewalls, and avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for accessing sensitive information.
- Educate Your Team: Before breaking up for Christmas, educate your team about the increased risks of cyber attacks during the holiday season. Join csg’s FREE Cyber Training Webinar to remind everyone of best security practices and how to recognize potential threats.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you and your team stay secure over the Christmas period. Remember, staying vigilant and proactive is key to protecting your data and systems from cyber threats. Enjoy the holidays with peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to safeguard your digital assets.