5 Security Tips for the Holiday Season

As we move into holiday shopping season, the scammers and hackers are hard at work trying to steal your information. We at Voipcom have come up with this list of 5 Security Tips to help you stay secure this holiday shopping season

1.  Do not click suspicious links

Hackers will do anything to get you to click a link. Often times they will redirect you to a web page that looks just like a legitimate one, but is really a fake page to collect your data
 
Unless you have requested specifically to be sent a link (such as a password reset) do not click any links within an email. Instead, Access the web page you are looking for directly. For example, don’t click on a link in an email from Chase bank, goto chase.com directly and log in. 

2.  Do not fall for Voice Phishing – Always be on Guard

Hackers know a friendly sounding voice on a phone call is an easy way to scam people out of their bank information. Do fall for Voice Phishing.

Your bank will never call you and ask for your personal information.
The solution for this is VERY simple. If you ever get a call from your “bank” or “credit card company” with an urgent matter. Tell the caller you will call them right back and HANG UP THE CALL. Do not give the caller any information at all. If you think the bank may legitimately need to speak with you, simply call the main customer service line directly.

3. Do not fall for Text Message Phishing

A newer scam, is sending a text message to you acting as if you have a fed ex delivery, or a bank request.

The hacker sends you a text message to your cell phone with a message that looks legitimate and will contain a link to the hackers website, that will look just like the company they are impersonating.

If you get a text message with a link DO NOT CLICK the link.

Instead delete and block that sender from your cell phone

4. Billing Scams – Do not pay unfamiliar invoices

A frequent scam targeting shoppers and businesses this time of year are billing scams. This scam works by the hacker sending you an email as a vendor such as “amazon” or “quickbooks” with an invoice and a link to pay.

Once you click the link to pay you are directed to the hackers website where they trick you into entering your data. They will also often even charge you for the fake invoice you are paying.

To avoid falling for this scam, verify any invoice you get via email. If you receive an invoice via email. Check the vendors online portal to see if you actually have an open invoice, or call the vendor to confirm.

Take a close look at the link in the email as well. Is it fake? Do you recognize the website?

5. Keep your web browser up to date

Hackers will exploit your outdated web browser to steal data, or install plugins.

Whether you use Chrome, Firefox, or any other browser, Don’t ignore the little update button in the upper right corner. When the button shows up, go ahead and update your browser. Often times these are critical security updates that need to applied.

Voipcom offers comprehensive cyber security services

If you have any questions or concerns about your business system security, call Voipcom today. 480-571-4454.

  • Network Compliance Scanning (PCI, etc)

  • Endpoint Managed Security (desktop, laptop, mobile)

  • Managed Next Generation Router Security (layer 7 inspection)

  • Physical Port Managed Security 

  • Wireless Security (Guest policies)

  • Email Security

  • Voice  – Phone system security

  • Security Policy Development

  • Security Policy Documentation

  • Phishing Security

  • Penetration Testing

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