News

As the festive shopping season kicks into high gear, it’s important to stay vigilant against cyber threats. Black Friday and Cyber Monday, while fantastic opportunities for deals, have increasingly become prime targets for scammers. Last year alone, over £11.5 million was lost to fraud in the UK during the festive period. At David Allen IT Solutions, we want to help you protect yourself, your business, and your data from falling victim to these scams.

 Online criminals are becoming more sophisticated, leveraging advanced tools like artificial intelligence (AI) to craft highly convincing scams. From fake listings for clothing and high-end tech on social media to fraudulent online marketplaces, scammers are exploiting the cost-of-living crisis and shoppers’ eagerness for discounts.

Last year, more than 16,000 reports of online shopping fraud were recorded in the UK between November and January, with the average victim losing £695. A significant proportion of these scams originated from social media platforms, highlighting the need for caution when shopping online.

Steps to avoid becoming a victim of cyber crime this Black Friday and Cyber Monday 

 At David Allen IT Solutions, we emphasize straightforward, proactive measures to keep your online shopping experience safe:

• Enable two-step verification – Adding an extra layer of security, such as two-step verification, is essential. Even if a scammer gets hold of your password, they won’t be able to access your accounts without the second authentication step.
• Avoid clicking suspicious links – Be cautious with links in emails, messages, or social media posts. Instead of clicking directly, go to the retailer’s official website or app to verify the deal.
• Use secure payment methods – Avoid using bank transfers whenever possible. Opt for credit cards or secure payment platforms that offer protection in case of fraud.
• Research sellers – Look for reviews on trusted review sites before purchasing from an unfamiliar seller. A little research can save you from big losses.
• Don’t fall for high-pressure tactics – Fraudsters often create a false sense of urgency, claiming limited stock or time-sensitive deals. Take a moment to assess before making a purchase.
• Monitor your accounts – Keep a close eye on your bank statements and online accounts for any suspicious activity, particularly during the busy shopping season.

For Businesses steps to keep your customers safe

If you run a business, it’s equally important to protect your brand and customers from potential threats:

• Invest in website security – Ensure your website uses HTTPS encryption and regularly update software to guard against vulnerabilities.
• Educate your customers – Share tips and warnings about common scams, like phishing attempts or fake social media accounts pretending to be your business.
• Implement strong authentication – Secure customer accounts with robust authentication measures, including two-factor authentication.

As experts in IT solutions, we urge everyone to take cybersecurity seriously this Black Friday and Cyber Monday. A little caution can go a long way in protecting your finances and personal information.

If you have any concerns or need tailored advice for your business, get in touch with David Allen IT Solutions. We’re here to ensure you stay safe and secure during this shopping season and beyond.

Email our team at solutions@davidallen-it.co.uk or call 01228 585300