Tag: Scams

Cybersecurity experts show biggest scam threats for 2025

Smarter, faster, and more sophisticated scams are coming. Thanks to AI, scammers are more efficient than ever, stealing money at record rates. Every day AI tools such as ChatGPT and OpenAI are used as scam arsenal, leading to around 13 million people in the UK to lose around £1.4bn each year.

Global scam protection leader F-Secure stays one way step ahead of cyber criminals, defending people from scams before they happen. F-Secure’s team of cybersecurity experts share the new threats the country will face in 2025:

New regulations for banks, telcos and social media companies who fail to prevent scams

Calvin Gan, Senior Manager, Scam Protection Strategy, says: “Right now lawmakers around the world are targeting telecom providers, banks, and social media companies, saying they should be held responsible when their customers fall victim to fraud. Australian lawmakers are pushing through a bill that will fine companies up to $50 million for failing to protect their customers from scams, and here, in a world first, UK bank refunds for fraud became mandatory after the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) reduced the maximum compensation from a previous proposal of £415,000 to £85,000, covering more than 99% of claims.

“Passing new laws that empower businesses to beef up protection against scams is a welcomed move. Scam fighting is not a top-down only effort but involves everyone from governments to organisations and even individuals. Just like we’ve seen with GDPR in Europe forcing companies to take data privacy more seriously, new legislation like this would create an extra protection mechanism for consumers.

“Still, there’s no 100% guaranteed way to prevent scams from happening in the first place. People need to take precautions daily, especially on scam-prone channels like social media and messaging apps.

Cheap, easy AI tools will be deployed in sophisticated cyber attacks

Laura Kankaala, Head of Threat Intelligence: “Using AI tools for malicious purposes (like generating malicious and manipulative content) has already been evident throughout this past year. As we head into 2025, we are bound to see more sophisticated attacks that leverage everyday AI tools – like ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, or basically any AI tool that is cheap and easy to access online. The reality is that cyber criminals are abusing this readily available technology to fine-tune their scams and consumers must be better informed, whether that’s from their bank, mobile phone or another service provider, or by the cybersecurity industry to help educate consumers. We all play a part.“

“While AI companies do put restrictions on malicious usage, most of them are not very successful at it. They need to be doing more to stop the use of their platforms for nefarious purposes – it cannot only be left up to legislation to enforce boundaries for what kind of content can be generated. Bottom line, the companies developing these tools should also be held up to a higher moral standard.”

Multi-stage scams will become more prevalent 

Joel Latto, Threat Advisor, says: “Cybercriminals have long relied on social engineering, and multi-stage scams represent some of their most deceptive tactics. These schemes often involve direct interaction with victims, enhancing their believability. For instance, a scammer might call a victim claiming they’ve applied for a loan. When the victim denies it, they are “transferred” to a supposed bank representative—another scammer, probably sat next to them—who proceeds to seek sensitive banking details. Malware further elevates these schemes, rerouting legitimate customer service calls to fraudsters or tricking victims into contacting fake numbers embedded in phishing emails.

“Such scams are effective because victims believe they are speaking with genuine, helpful representatives, which makes them more susceptible under pressure. This is something we’ve seen dramatised through TV series’ such as Cold Call, which has recently rocketed up the charts on Netflix following its release five years ago. Perhaps more popular now because scams are much more commonplace, and viewers are much more likely to relate.

“Until now, the scalability of these scams was limited by the human capacity of fraudsters, who could only handle a limited number of interactions in specific languages and time zones. AI is changing this equation. With the rise of sophisticated conversational AI chatbots, scammers can now mimic real human interactions at scale, conducting conversations 24/7 across multiple languages. Coupled with realistic deepfake audio, these new call-based scams blur the line between human and machine interaction, making them far more dangerous than traditional robocalls.

“To counter these evolving threats, defenses must adapt, and mobile phone service providers must act. Blocking call-forwarding malware, detecting suspicious numbers, and developing sophisticated audio analysis tools to spot deepfakes are essential. Equally critical is educating users about the signs of scams and potential red flags. Defensive strategies must evolve as fast as attackers’ capabilities, leveraging AI-driven solutions and strong collaboration between cybersecurity experts, telecom providers, and regulatory bodies.”

High-yield, high-risk: the rise of Bitcoin investment scams on a new playing field

Sarogini Muniyandi, Senior Manager, Scam Protection Engineering, says: “Decentralised Finance (DeFi) is a new blockchain-based financial service that’s been gaining traction and acceptance over the last year. DeFi refers to financial services provided by an algorithm on a blockchain, without a financial services company. It is an alternative approach that largely operates outside the traditional centralized financial infrastructure.

“As DeFi becomes mainstream, scammers will take advantage of anyone interested in Bitcoin investment and other digital assets, especially those that are unfamiliar with the risks of blockchain-based finance. By 2025, DeFi is expected to attract even more users seeking alternatives to traditional finance. The DeFi market provides loans, interest-bearing accounts, and high-yield investments that promise substantial returns, which can entice investors of all experience levels. With the rising popularity of DeFi, the total value locked (TVL) in these projects is projected to grow, making it a prime target for fraudsters who can steal funds on a larger scale.

“DeFi platforms operate on decentralised blockchain networks, allowing users to participate without traditional identification or regulatory oversight. This open environment enables scammers to steal victims’ funds and vanish into thin air, all while remaining anonymous. By manipulating the smart contract and tools used to automate DeFi functions, the risks of stealing investor funds are at stake. Some DeFi platforms offer investors with unsustainable, extremely high-yield rates for farming Bitcoin derivatives, only for investors to later discover they can’t withdraw their Bitcoin or that the platform has disappeared with their funds.

‘While DeFi offers financial freedom and potential profits, its open, unregulated, and anonymous nature also creates a ripe environment for scams – something every Bitcoin investor needs to be aware of in 2025.”

No An Post is not having a warehouse sale on Facebook

With the festive season well and truly underway this is the time when scammers are most at work and low and behold the scams are rife on Facebook and one of these scams is an An Post scam giving away pallets of goods for little or nothing this is however a thing in other countries but not here. The pages claim they are goods for sale that have not been delivered which is untrue.

We have covered many scams here in detail and what to watch out for before which you can find here not just what you read in the news or hear on the radio going into detail with videos so do check them out.

The latest scam however is catching people with users posting their so called bargain buys from An Post and again all part of the plan, one look at their Facebook pages says it all and for the offending page same thing little or no followers.

It does not matter what is written in their about section on the Facebook page as this can be easily doctored like any other page.  The thing is here i the page is also a sponsored page and of course Facebook have done nothing about it despite it being reported and of course to An Post..

Stop Think and Check with any addon social media folks

 

 

Millions of Britons fall victim to fake websites here is how to avoid it and be aware

Over five million Britons have been scammed on a fake website in the last year and over half of those (2.7 million) have lost money from it according to a new study by F-Secure. With an average loss of £50 this totals up to £130m being stolen from Britons’ pockets, and the UK economy.

It’s no secret that cyber criminals employ sophisticated tactics to orchestrate shopping scams, and the creation of fake websites that mimic well-known, established brands is just one of those ways.

In a recent study by F-Secure, research uncovered what Britons are buying when they are hit by fake websites and it’s impacting a spectrum of industries. The most common products are:

  1. Technology
  2. Clothing
  3. Home furnishings
  4. Cosmetics
  5. Footwear

In a bigger twist, further research by F-Secure found that six in 10 consumers have avoided shopping with small and independent businesses: expressing a preference for shopping with better-known and established brands. However, more than half of the identified fake websites were impersonating three leading global mass-market brands.

Here, F-Secure’s Tom Gaffney, talks more about the issue of brand impersonation and what consumers should look out for.

The presumption that bigger brands are safer is where the danger lies because they are more prone to impersonation. They are easier to impersonate and often big brands that offer high demand items (the latest Nike shoe, Apple device for example), can be more lucrative for cybercriminals.

Fraudsters are clever – leveraging brand assets such as imagery, logos, and colours – fraudsters lure consumers in with an illusion of authenticity. They also use nefarious domains, employing slight misspellings that go unnoticed, or using subtle unconventional domains like ‘.shop’ or ‘.xyz’. This all poses a challenge in discerning their legitimacy.

The primary goal of brand impersonation is to deceive consumers into providing sensitive personal information, such as credit card details, or to lure them into purchasing counterfeit or compromised goods and taking their money. Alternatively, scammers may simply aim to defraud customers by accepting payments without delivering the promised products or services.

It’s important that consumers stay vigilant to ensure the best protection for themselves and their wallets against online scamming tactics. Here are nine top tips to staying safe when shopping online:

Check if a website is safe to use: 

Use a trusted tool like F-Secure Online Shopping Checker to check if a website is safe to buy from.

Monitor your bank accounts and credit cards

Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorised transactions and report any suspicious activity to your financial institution immediately.

Use unique and strong passwords

If user details are stolen from a legitimate retailer via a data breach, shoppers could be at risk. So it’s important to use a strong, unique password when creating your online accounts.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Always enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where available. Two-factor authentication works by adding extra security to online accounts (beyond your username and password).

Be vigilant about email scams

If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from a big brand urging you to click a link, don’t do it. If you think it’s genuine, go directly to the official website by typing the URL into your browser.

Use a credit card or PayPal

Many credit card providers offer insurance against fraud. PayPal also offers some support for safe online shopping. Avoid wire transfers or other untraceable payment methods.

Beware of big bargains

Nowadays, comparison engines have essentially removed the need for retailers to provide large discounts. So, it’s important to be wary of huge offers that seem too good to be true.

Be vigilant even with brands you know and trust

Given that scammers often impersonate bigger brands, make sure to remain vigilant even when shopping with the brands you know.

Use a reliable internet security app

The best way to stay safe online is by using a trusted internet security product. With F-Secure Total, your passwords are monitored, you’ll be alerted of breaches if they occur, and your access to potentially harmful shopping sites will be automatically blocked.

Rise in Purchase Scams Duping Consumers – Bank of Ireland

Bank of Ireland is warning consumers about a new wave of purchase scams which is luring consumers to make payments for goods and services through an advertisement online, which then transpires to be fake.

In the last year, there has been a 32% increase in purchase scams reported to Bank of Ireland. From relatively low value items such as clothes and trainers, through to holiday home deposits and even cars, consumers are often lured by the false promise of a slashed price or bargain and asked to pay directly, sending money from their bank account to another via bank transfer, which provides little protection.  Once the payment is transferred, the seller usually cuts all contact, and the product or service never arrives.

Providing practical advice for consumers, Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud at Bank of Ireland, said: “Fraudulent advertisements online and on social media have been the subject of regular warnings for some time. This alarming trend is not going away, even with increased awareness among the general public, and repeated calls for websites and search engines to remove the adverts.  These fake ads should be caught before they are published online, but many are not.

It’s unacceptable to see fraudsters operating so openly through online advertisements. No company should be generating advertising revenue from criminals – search engines, websites and social media platforms really need to step up and crack down. Our advice to consumers is don’t click on these adverts, ignore them completely, and if something sounds too good to be true, it’s probably fraud.”

Bank of Ireland’s advice in response to the current wave of purchase scams:

  • Research and read reviews to check the site and the seller are genuine.
  • Be alert to poor grammar and spelling, or vague product descriptions.
  • Go directly to the online shopping site by typing the web address into your web browser.
  • Links in unsolicited emails or on social media are not always safe and should be avoided.
  • Use secure payment methods, try and pay by debit or credit card, or the secure payment method recommended by reputable online retailers and auction sites, as this could give you more protection.
  • Never agree to buying vouchers or other items for someone as a way to pay for something else.
  • Always view large purchases in person prior to making full payment for them.
  • If people suspect they have been a victim of fraud they should contact their bank immediately so that the bank can take action to stop a fraud in progress and try to recover funds. Bank of Ireland customers can call our Fraud Team 24/7, on the Freephone line 1800 946 764. 

Bank of Ireland is hosting a series of fraud awareness events in branches around the country, where its fraud and security teams will provide advice to members of the public and business owners on the latest fraud trends in circulation and tips on how to safeguard their finances.

For full listing of fraud awareness events and advice and information on fraud visit the Security Zone the Bank of Ireland website.

Revolut warns more than 2 million customers in Ireland following sharp rise in job scams

Revolut, the global financial app with more than 40 million customers worldwide, has directly issued a fraud warning to more than 2 million of its customers in Ireland, cautioning those looking to boost their income that job-related scams are on the rise — and advising them on how to stay ahead of these sophisticated job scams.

Amid the rising cost of living, sophisticated scammers are taking advantage, warns Revolut. According to its inaugural Financial Crime and Consumer Security Insight Report, the global financial app found that while just 1% of fraud victims in the country were subject to job scams in 2023, 15% of the total sum lost to fraud in Ireland — second only to investment scams (53%) — was caused by people falling for false job opportunities in a bid to boost their income.

This form of authorised fraud sees scammers post fake job openings either online or by reaching out directly to victims via messaging apps, posing as employers or recruiters. As part of the phoney application process, scammers either request money upfront or require personal financial information to defraud the victim. Common tactics include asking people to pay for training, administration costs, or setup fees, or to purchase required equipment, such as a laptop or a mobile phone. This poses a notable risk for those entering the job market for the first time after school or college, people struggling with the cost of living, or those looking to get back to work.

Revolut’s report also found that job scams had increased globally over the course of 2023 — the most of any type of scam. In Q1 2023, job scams represented only 1% of Revolut’s global fraud cases, as well as just 1% of the overall value of all money lost to fraud. However, by Q4 2023, these figures rose to 12% of all cases and 21% of the overall value lost to scams, increasing 1,200% and 2,100% respectively.

Based on extensive internal research and data analysis for 2023, the report aims to shed light on the growing scam and fraud industry across the globe, and provide tangible watch-outs for everyday people to help them protect themselves. Among the findings, Revolut revealed that in 2023, the company is estimated to have prevented over €550 million in fraud losses, up 130% from 2022. This was largely thanks to its proprietary fraud detection system, which deploys cutting-edge machine learning and artificial intelligence methodologies.

Woody Malouf, Head of Financial Crime at Revolut, commented: “Having harnessed data from more than 500 million transactions per month, our dedicated fraud intelligence team has observed the evolution of job opportunity scams that prey on unsuspecting job hunters. Given the cost of living and high inflation, the number of reported job scams has dramatically increased. Sadly, criminals prey on those seeking a legitimate way to better their income, particularly young and often inexperienced job seekers. Our customers’ security is of paramount importance to us so please pay heed to this warning; we work tirelessly to identify patterns and spot unusual activity, helping our customers to stay ahead of emerging scam trends.”

Revolut’s advice to stay one step ahead of scammers:

  • Observe our warnings. Our proprietary AI systems never sleep. They scan more than 10,000 transactions per minute and flag suspicious transactions in just a few seconds.

  • Stay alert. Always question things that seem too good to be true.

  • Trust your instincts. If something feels off, take a step back and investigate by doing your own research.

  • Be extra cautious. Use secure channels. Stick to trusted websites and platforms for transactions.

  • Report suspicious activity. If something seems suspicious, let Revolut know — we’re here to help 24/7, directly from the app.

To read the full Financial Crime and Consumer Security Report 2023 and learn more about Revolut’s fraud prevention efforts, visit here.

For more information, visit www.revolut.com/en-IE.

Gen Z is three times more likely to fall victim to online scams than silver surfers

Despite being assumed as the most digitally native generation, Gen Z is  being scammed three times more than silver surfers, debunking the assumption that older generations are less tech-savvy.

Gen Z is regarded as the first true digital natives and are reported to spend more time online than any other generation. However, a recent study by cybersecurity provider F-Secure found that 16-24 year olds are three times more likely to fall victim to online scams (37%), compared to those aged 55 and above (12%). Challenging the assumption that they are the most tech-savvy demographic.

Despite their vulnerability, only 11% of Gen Z respondents expressed concerns about online shopping safety, a stark contrast to 31% of the over 55s. The research indicates a potential lack of awareness among Gen Z regarding the risks associated with online transactions.

In an attempt to protect themselves, and uphold the notion they are scam proof, 71% of Gen Z respondents admit they either completely, or sometimes, avoid independent online retailers, perceiving them as higher risk than well-known brands, where they shop for a greater sense of safety and security. However, the study reveals a misconception, as scams occur across all shopping platforms, with occurrences at 27% for small independents, 23% for large online platforms, and 21% for large retailers.

The most common items Gen Z fell victim to in online scams last year are:

  1. Fashion items
  2. Tech
  3. Beauty products
  4. Furniture and home decor
  5. Travel
  6. Sports gear
  7. Gifts
  8. Food
  9. Vehicles
  10. Concert tickets

Tom Gaffney, cybersecurity expert at F-Secure, says: “Gen Z may be the most tech-savvy of all when it comes to using online tools but it appears that it may be a false assumption to assume they have the same awareness of threats. While they can make a TikTok video and jump on the latest viral trend, our research shows they are less able to identify when they are being exploited by cyber criminals.

“There is a clear lack of awareness among this demographic when it comes to online safety, which could be driven by over-sharing and misplaced trust online.”

F-Secure, a leading cybersecurity provider, offers the following tips to stay safe when shopping online:

  1. Don’t click on declined payment links in emails, even if they look like they’re from a trusted retailer like Amazon. Instead, log in to the retailer’s official website to check the payment status.
  2. Be wary of free offers for digital assets, especially in online video games. Cybercriminals often use these to trick users into giving away their login details.
  3. Be cautious when purchasing from new or unknown online stores. Look for warning signs like a lack of company information or a recently created domain.
  4. Don’t fall for social media scams advertising too-good-to-be-true deals. Check comments and user profiles carefully before making a purchase.

Don’t Get Duped: Common Scams Targeting Individuals and Businesses

In the digital age, scammers have become increasingly sophisticated, deploying deceitful tactics to defraud individuals and businesses. Understanding the landscape of these scams is the first line of defense; awareness and vigilance are potent weapons in the battle against fraud. From phishing to a full-blown business email compromise, criminals’ arsenal is varied and insidious. Here’s a dive into the most common ones.

Types of Scams

Both individuals and businesses are vulnerable to many scams, which can result in significant financial losses. While new scams continue to emerge, some have stood the test of time and remain prevalent today.

Business Number Spoofing Scams

Business number spoofing scams involve fraudsters using technology to alter the caller ID to make it appear that the call is coming from a legitimate business number, often recognized and trusted. This scam tactic is not only a problem for the individuals who receive the calls but also for businesses whose numbers are spoofed. Customers may be tricked into giving away personal information or making payments, thinking they are dealing with an actual company representative.

Individuals must independently verify the caller’s identity, such as calling the business back through the official number on their website. A good scam likely fix for businesses should involve informing customers through various channels that they will never ask for sensitive information or immediate payment over the phone. Additionally, companies should monitor for reports of their business number being misused and take steps to alert customers promptly if such incidents occur.

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details, by disguising as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. These attacks often come in emails but can also occur via text messages or social media platforms.

The scammer will typically use a sense of urgency or fear to prompt the victim into providing personal information. For example, an email may claim that your bank account has been compromised, and immediate action is required to prevent fraud. The sender will then provide a link for you to click on, leading to a fake website that steals your login credentials.

Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal information. Be wary of urgent or threatening language, and never click on links or open attachments from unknown sources. If you receive an email claiming to be from a legitimate company, it’s always best to go directly to their website instead of clicking on any provided links.

Business Email Compromise

Business email compromise (BEC) scams target businesses using social engineering and email spoofing to deceive employees into transferring money or sensitive information to the scammer. These scams often involve a hacker gaining access to a company’s email system and posing as a high-level executive, such as the CEO or CFO, to request urgent wire transfers or confidential data

Businesses should implement strict authentication processes for financial transactions and educate employees on the red flags of a potential scam. Reviewing and regularly updating security protocols, such as multi-factor authentication, is essential to prevent unauthorized access to company emails.

Online Shopping Scams

With the rise of e-commerce, online shopping scams have become increasingly prevalent. These scams often involve fake websites or social media pages advertising popular products at meager prices. Once a customer makes a purchase, they receive a counterfeit or never receive the product.

Always research before purchasing from unfamiliar websites or social media pages. Look for reviews and ratings from previous customers, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Use secure payment methods such as credit cards or PayPal, which protect against fraudulent charges.

Government Impersonation Scams

Government impersonation scams often target the elderly and individuals with limited English proficiency. These scams involve a criminal posing as a government official, such as an IRS agent or immigration officer, and threatening legal action if payment is not made immediately.

It’s important to remember that government agencies will never demand immediate payment over the phone or via email. If you receive a call or email from someone claiming to be from a government agency, hang up and contact the official agency directly to verify the information.

Investment Scams

Investment scams often promise high returns with little to no risk and can take various forms, such as Ponzi schemes or cryptocurrency fraud. These scams prey on individuals’ desire for quick and easy wealth, luring them into investing their hard-earned money into fraudulent ventures.

Always do thorough research before investing in any opportunity. Be wary of promises of high returns with low risk, and never feel pressured to make a quick decision. Seek advice from trusted financial advisors or research before making any investment decisions.

Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams involve fraudsters pretending to be from a reputable tech company, such as Microsoft or Apple, and claiming an issue with your computer or device. They will then ask for remote access to your device, install malware, and charge a fee for their “services.”

Legitimate tech companies won’t contact you out of the blue asking for personal info or remote device access. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a tech company, verify with the official company. Always be cautious of unsolicited requests for device access or personal info.

Protect Yourself

In addition to being aware of common scams, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a victim:

 

  • Never give out personal information over the phone, email, or social media unless you have verified the recipient’s identity.
  • Keep your devices and software updated to prevent hackers from accessing sensitive information.
  • Be cautious when clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources.
  • Use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts, and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible.
  • Stay informed about the latest scams and be vigilant in detecting fraudulent activity.  

Being aware and vigilant helps prevent scams. If targeted or victimized, resources like the Federal Trade Commission and the Better Business Bureau are available for reporting and recovering from financial loss. Act swiftly if you suspect a scam to minimize potential damage.

Overall, in a world rife with fraudsters, maintaining vigilance is paramount. By staying informed about the common types of scams and their telltale signs, individuals and businesses can take proactive measures to protect themselves from becoming the next victims. Remember, when something seems too good to be true—it probably is. Stay safe, and don’t get duped.

Cybercrime is the number one threat when it comes to financial crime in Ireland

Hacking, phishing, online scams, and other variations of cybercrime are thought to be the most prevalent financial crimes in Ireland, as found in a new survey by the Compliance Institute, which polled 230 compliance professionals working primarily in Irish financial services organisations nationwide.

When asked what they consider to be the most prevalent financial crime in Ireland, respondents to the Compliance Institute Financial Crime answered as follows:

  • Cybercrime (hacking, phishing, online scams)                                                      34%
  • Tax evasion                                                                                                                    21%
  • Fraud                                                                                                                               21%
  • Money laundering                                                                                                         19%
  • Bribery and corruption                                                                                                  4%
  • Insider trading                                                                                                                 1%

Michael Kavanagh, CEO of the Compliance Institute commented on the findings:

“While financial crimes from tax evasion to insider trading could be classed as the “traditional” criminal pursuits, cybercrime is more new-age and is developing and advancing at a pace so fast that organisations and legislators cannot keep up.

From the mid-term review of the 2019-2024 Cyber Security Strategy launched in the middle of 2023, we learned of the Government’s plans to create a national anti-ransomware organisation and offer cash subsidies to small businesses to help fight cybersecurity threats. The timelines for this are unclear, but there’s no doubt that the move would be laudable and welcomed with open arms by many businesses that continue to be plagued by ransomware attacks.

These attacks can have catastrophic consequences not just for those whom they are perpetrated against, but for the wider public. We only have to look at the devastation that was caused to patients following the 2021 hacking of the HSE to understand the severity of the crimes”.

Fraud

Mr. Kavanagh continued, “Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) stats show fraudsters stole nearly €85 million (€84.6m) through frauds and scams in 2022, an increase of 8.8% on 2021. As a New Year commences, there’s a real concern that we will see an uptick in these figures”.

Mr. Kavanagh concluded,

“Ireland is now Europe’s largest data hosting cluster, putting the need for elevated cybercrime and data protection systems into sharp focus.

Regulators in Ireland, and around the world, are constantly updating and issuing new guidance to firms in response to emerging cyber security issues, such as fake documentation and the reliability of information sources.

Regulators need to ask themselves how they can regulate and supervise without stifling innovation. Businesses and organisations need to ask how can they best prepare and respond, and the general public also needs to know what measures they can take to protect themselves”

Revealed: The 12 Scams of Christmas – and how to avoid them

IT.ie, the Irish-owned IT services company, today reveals the “12 Scams of Christmas”, outlining the digital ruses consumers are most likely to fall for this festive season.

As consumers prepare for the festive season, it can be an opportunity for cybercriminals to take advantage of increased online activity to gain access to sensitive data. Last year, An Garda Síochána issued a warning to consumers, stating that online fraud was on the rise at Christmas time.

To help them to keep their personal information safe, IT.ie is encouraging consumers to “channel their inner Scrooge” by fiercely protecting their data and hard-earned money from criminals. This year, the message is clear: be a Scrooge with your private and financial data – or it might become a gift for criminals.

The 12 Scams of Christmas that consumers need to look out for are:

  1. Sophisticated phishing emails

These emails are crafted with advanced techniques such as artificial intelligence, making them look almost identical to those from reputable brands. They often lure victims with fake alerts or offers, leading to sites that steal personal information. IT.ie advises everyone to verify the email’s authenticity and avoid clicking on links or attachments from unknown sources. If in doubt, don’t click.

  1. Social media ad scams

Scammers use social media platforms to post ads for exclusive or hard-to-find items at very low prices. These ads often lead to fake websites where your payment information can be stolen. Always research the seller and look for reviews on independent platforms before making a purchase.

  1. Bogus websites and URL spoofing

Cybercriminals create fake websites that mimic legitimate online retailers, often using URLs that contain subtle misspellings or alterations that can easily go unnoticed. These websites can lure unsuspecting victims by offering high-demand goods at unbelievably low prices. Shoppers should always double check the URL for the correct spelling of the website’s domain name and ensure that it starts with “HTTPS”. A lock symbol should be visible before the URL.

  1. Untraceable payment methods

Scammers prefer payment methods that are difficult to trace and offer no fraud protection, such as cryptocurrencies, wire transfers, or gift cards. These methods make it almost impossible to recover lost funds. IT.ie recommends to always use secure and traceable payment methods such as credit and debit cards, or reputable money transfer services.

  1. Mobile app frauds

Fraudulent mobile apps, often disguised as legitimate shopping apps, can steal personal information or infect your device with malware. These apps might appear in official app stores but often have few downloads and negative reviews. Always verify the app’s legitimacy and read reviews before downloading.

  1. Delivery notification scams

These scams involve sending fake delivery notifications via email or text, which link to phishing websites designed to steal personal information. They often imply a sense of urgency, claiming a package is waiting. These scams are particularly successful at this time of year when people are expecting multiple deliveries. IT.ie recommends that shoppers always use the official tracking tools provided by the retailer and never click on links in unrelated email or text notifications.

  1. Charity donation frauds

Scammers set up fake charities, particularly during the holiday season when people are more likely to make donations. They often solicit donations through persuasive emails or social media campaigns. Always research the charity using official charity regulator websites before donating.

  1. Gift card grifts

Gift card scams involve selling discounted gift cards that are either fake or have been previously used. These offers are often found on unofficial websites or through social media ads. Always purchase gift cards directly from official retailers or authorised sellers.

  1. Travel scams

With holiday travel in high demand, scammers can offer unrealistically cheap travel deals through fake websites or phishing emails. These scams may involve fake airline tickets, hotel bookings, or holiday packages. Holiday-goers should always book travel through reputable agents or directly with airlines and hotels.

  1. Fake product reviews

Scammers will often post positive product reviews on substandard or non-existent products. These reviews create a false sense of trust and quality, making shoppers think that the product is legitimate. Shoppers should use well-known review platforms and be sceptical of overly-positive reviews for unknown brands or products.

  1. E-card scams

E-card scams involve sending electronic greeting cards that contain malware or links to phishing sites. These e-cards may appear to be from known contacts, but are instead from scammers. Open e-cards only if you are expecting them and you can verify the sender’s identity.

  1. Job offer scams

During the holiday season, fake job offers for seasonal positions are common. These scams often ask for personal information upfront or require payment for training or background checks. Legitimate employers will never ask for payment as part of the hiring process.

Eamon Gallagher, founder and MD, IT.ie, said: “This Christmas, we are telling everyone to emulate Scrooge’s cautious nature by guarding their personal and financial data against online fraud.

It is essential to approach holiday shopping and online interactions with a heightened sense of awareness. Take a moment to assess the legitimacy of an offer, whether it’s an amazing deal on a gift, a charity appeal, or a sudden job opportunity.

“Scammers prey on the urgency and emotion of the season, often creating scenarios that require immediate action or payment. It is important that everyone educates themselves and their loved ones about these scams as a crucial step in safeguarding their personal and financial information. Sharing this knowledge with friends and family, especially those who may be more vulnerable, can help to ensure scammers don’t get any early Christmas presents this year. Shop safe, shop secure and shop smart this Christmas!”