The Christmas season is upon us, and like many across the UK, Tees Valley residents are gearing up for some serious online shopping. But amidst the excitement of Black Friday deals and Christmas bargains, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against a growing threat: online shopping scams.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – part of GCHQ – has issued a stark warning to shoppers, highlighting the increasing sophistication of online scams, which are becoming harder to spot.
The Growing Threat in The Tees Valley
The NCSC reports that Brits lost a staggering £11.5 million to online shopping fraud during the 2023 Christmas period, with each victim losing an average of £695.
While anyone can fall victim, the average age of victims is 42. Shoppers using social media need to be particularly careful, as social media sites such as Facebook, TickTok, and others are a hotbed for these scams. 43% of online shopping scam reports cited social media as the platform used to launch the scam.
AI: The Scammer’s New Weapon
Cybersecurity experts are particularly concerned about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by scammers. AI-powered tools, such as large language models, can create highly convincing fake emails, adverts, and websites that are almost indistinguishable from the real thing.
This makes it more difficult than ever to identify scams, as they no longer exhibit the tell-tale signs like poor grammar and spelling that we used to rely on.
How to Stay Safe While Shopping Online
The NCSC and Action Fraud have issued some practical tips for Tees Valley residents to help them shop safely online this Christmas:
- Don’t rush: Scammers often use urgency tactics to pressure you into making quick decisions. Always take your time and verify offers that seem too good to be true.
- Be wary of limited-time deals: If you’re being pressured to buy something quickly because it’s a ‘limited-time offer’, be extra cautious. It could be a tactic to make you act impulsively.
- Check the website carefully: Look for signs that a website is legitimate, such as a valid security certificate (https://) and contact information. Be wary of websites with spelling mistakes, poor grammar, or blurry images.
- Pay with a credit card: Using a credit card offers more protection than other payment methods. If something goes wrong, it’s easier to get your money back.
- Use strong passwords and two-step verification: Protect your accounts with strong, unique passwords (the NCSC recommends using three random words) and enable two-step verification wherever possible.
- Trust your gut: If something feels off, don’t be afraid to walk away. It’s better to miss out on a deal than to become a victim of fraud.
- At Bondgate IT we simplify this down to the ABC of Cyber Security
- Assume Nothing
- Belive no one
- Check everything
Enjoy a Scam-Free Festive Season
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and secure online shopping experience this Christmas.
Remember, awareness is key to staying ahead of the scammers.
Spread the word and help your friends and family in Tees Valley stay safe online this festive season.
Can Bondgate IT help you stay safe online? Reach out to us today to find out about our multi-layered approach to Cyber Security.