12/08/2025
'tis the season to avoid holiday phishing scams.
Phishing scams are on the increase during the holidays, especially at work. Defenses are down, distractions are up.
1. Be alert when it comes to charities asking for end of the year donations. Verify it is a legitimate charity organization. IRS has tools to confirm 501(c)(3) status for tax deductions.
2. AI-generated voice-cloned messages are increasingly more convincing impersonating trusted individuals or organizations. Be cautious of unsolicited calls. Hang up, report call and consider blocking the number.
3. Delivery notice scams from fake shipping companies. Do not open suspicious emails, file attachments, links or return calls. Ensure tracking numbers or order details match merchant information.
4. Amazing discounts and free gift card offers. Do not click or respond to unsolicited emails or online ads or websites that offer free gift cards.
Take time to sip your cafe mocha whilst reviewing emails and messages. Verify URLs. Verify requests directly with the person. Never trust, always verify.
Check it once, check it twice.