The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and relaxation. Unfortunately, it’s also prime time for cybercriminals to strike. In recent years, we’ve seen a significant increase in cyberattacks during this period. Research shows that ransomware attacks increase by 30% during the holiday season, and 89% of businesses express concerns about cyber attacks. Let’s explore the reasons why.
IT Professionals Are Not Working
Like most of us, many IT professionals take time off during the holiday season, leaving organisations more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Cybercriminals know this and take advantage of the reduced IT staff to launch their attacks. With fewer eyes on the network, it’s easier for malicious actors to slip through the cracks.
Seasonal Software Vulnerabilities
Many organisations may delay software updates during the holiday season, leaving systems vulnerable to known exploits. Cybercriminals also often release new malware and hacking tools specifically targeting seasonal vulnerabilities.
Increased Online Shopping
Cybercriminals often target e-commerce platforms, seeking to exploit vulnerabilities and steal sensitive customer data, such as credit card information and personal addresses. Phishing attacks are also disguised as holiday deals or shipping notifications, tricking users into revealing personal information or downloading malicious software.
Employees Are Distracted
The festive season often leads to decreased employee productivity. Employees may be distracted by holiday shopping, parties, and family gatherings. This can lead to careless behaviour, such as clicking on phishing emails or downloading malicious software. Cybercriminals can exploit these distractions to gain unauthorised access to sensitive information.
Employees Working Remotely Are Easier Targets
With more people on the move and using public Wi-Fi networks during the holiday season, the risk of cyberattacks increases. Remote workers may also be more exposed to threats as they may not have access to the same level of security as office-based employees.
How To Protect Your Business From Cyberattacks During the Holiday Season
To protect your business during the holiday season, consider the following tips:
Network Security: Implement robust network security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
Employee Training: Educate your employees about cybersecurity best practices, including how to recognize phishing emails and avoid malicious websites.
Backup and Recovery: Regularly back up your business-critical data and test your recovery plans.
Strong Passwords: Encourage employees to use strong, unique passwords for all their accounts. Consider implementing a password management tool.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of a cyberattack this holiday season and beyond.
