Filipinos Must Stay Alert Amid Holiday Cybercrime Surge, Advises Kaspersky

As the holiday season approaches, many Filipinos are shopping online, exchanging gifts, and staying connected with loved ones. However, Kaspersky, a leader in cybersecurity and digital privacy, warns that while online shopping is convenient, it also increases the risk of cybercrime.

Just before the holidays, Kaspersky products identified 3,385,368 web-based cyber threats on the computers of Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) participants in the Philippines from July to September 2024. During this time, 28.3% of users faced these online threats, ranking the country 8th globally for web threat exposure.

Phishing emails and malicious links are common cyber attacks often disguised as holiday offers or delivery updates. Cybercriminals use these tactics to trick recipients into clicking harmful links or opening infected attachments.

Another danger is fake websites, which often mimic trusted retailers to steal payment information. Shoppers may unknowingly enter credit card details, which can be intercepted by fraudsters.

File-less malware also poses a major concern by operating without traditional files, making it hard for antivirus programs to detect. It often exploits legitimate tools for malicious activities in the background.

“Given the Philippines’ high exposure to cyber threats, it’s important for both individuals and businesses to stay vigilant,” said Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky. “Taking simple steps, such as using reliable security tools and staying informed about common online scams, can go a long way in preventing cyber incidents.”

To protect against these threats, Kaspersky offers actionable advice for both consumers and businesses:

For Consumers:

1. Verify emails and links: Check sender details and avoid clicking suspicious links. If in doubt, visit official websites directly.
2. Secure your online transactions: Use verified payment methods and strong passwords.
3. Avoid public Wi-Fi: Use VPN software to encrypt if you must use public Wi-Fi.
4. Bookmark trusted sites: Prevent accidental access to fake websites.
5. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.

For Businesses:

1. Update all systems: Prevent vulnerabilities by applying patches promptly.
2. Educate employees: Use tools like Kaspersky’s Automated Security Awareness Platform to train staff against phishing and social engineering.
3. Implement strong access controls: Limit user access to essential areas of the network.
4. Set up a Security Operations Center (SOC): Use advanced tools like Kaspersky’s XDR solutions to defend against sophisticated cyberthreats.
5. Use the latest Threat Intelligence information to have in-depth visibility into cyberthreats targeting your organization and provide your InfoSec professionals with the most comprehensive and up-to-date information regarding potential malicious actors and their TTPs.

For more information, visit Kaspersky at http://www.kaspersky.com/.