12 November 2024 – As year-end approaches, people are gearing up to make the most of the holiday season. Unfortunately, this time of year also attracts cybercriminals who exploit people’s relaxed attitudes and lowered defences. International Fraud Awareness Week, running from 17-23 November, is a timely reminder to stay informed and protect yourself from digital threats.

JustMoney.co.za, a platform dedicated to helping South Africans make informed financial decisions, has teamed up with experts to share key tips for safeguarding your finances online.

How Do Cybercriminals Trick You?

Wicus Ross, a senior security researcher at Orange Cyberdefense, explains that South Africans are most likely to be targeted by scammers and fraudsters. “You’re most likely to be a victim of social engineering or manipulation, which can be executed with nothing more than an internet connection and a mobile phone,” says Ross.

Typical victims include older individuals, those less familiar with internet security, or people who appear vulnerable in some way. Cybercriminals often befriend victims on social media and gradually extract money or trick them into carrying out certain tasks.

Common cybercrime attacks include:

• Phishing: Tricking victims into sharing sensitive information.
• Bait-and-switch: Advertising superior goods but delivering inferior products.
• Posing as a trusted entity: Mimicking online shopping sites.
• Offering prizes or downloads: Collecting data in exchange for “free” offers.
• Fake invoices: Manipulating banking details.
• SIM-swap attacks: Hijacking phone numbers to access accounts.

How to Protect Yourself

Thankfully, there are many steps you can take to safeguard your digital presence:

1. Keep Your Software Updated: Regular updates and patches protect against vulnerabilities.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Mix letters, numbers, and symbols. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security.
3. Avoid Unmoderated Forums: These platforms can spread misinformation that might be used against you.
4. Corporate Training: Participate in workplace training on recognising cybercrime threats.
5. Back Up Your Data: Preferably keep backups offline to recover from ransomware attacks.
6. Shop Only on Secure Sites: Stick to trusted retailers with clear policies and 2FA options.
7. Use Mobile Shopping Apps: Apps often have enhanced security compared to websites.
8. Opt for Credit Over Debit Cards: Credit cards offer better fraud protection.
9. Don’t Click on Suspicious Links: Visit company websites directly to check for offers.
10. Ignore Unsolicited Competitions: Delete messages claiming you’ve won if you didn’t enter.
11. Update Your Browser and Phone OS: Security patches protect against new threats.
12. Use Virtual Credit Cards: These digital cards offer extra protection and can be cancelled easily.
13. Separate Shopping Email: Using a “throwaway” email for online shopping reduces spam and risk.
14. Invest in Quality Antivirus Software: Paid options often provide better protection than free versions.
15. Secure Your Wi-Fi: Use mobile data over public Wi-Fi when possible.
16. Use a Reputable VPN: VPNs encrypt data and mask your IP address, but beware of fake services.

Ross warns, “If something is ‘free,’ then you are the product. Always be sceptical, and if something sounds too good to be true, walk away.”

Stay Alert and Secure

Sarah Nicholson, operations manager of JustMoney, emphasises the importance of vigilance: “Online crimes, such as banking fraud, phishing scams, and malware attacks, are on the rise. Regularly monitor bank statements and debit orders, and scrutinise credit card charges.”

Nicholson advises reporting suspicious transactions to your bank immediately and contacting your internet service provider if your connection has been compromised.

Helpful Contacts

• Southern African Fraud Prevention Service:
  Website: safps.org.za | Phone: 011 867 2234 | Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• The Cybersecurity Hub:
  Government resources for handling cyber threats: cybersecurityhub.gov.za
• South African Police Service (SAPS):
  Visit SAPS Fraud and Scams Awareness for tips and to file a report.

JustMoney.co.za offers financial advice, tools, and access to services. With over 690,000 subscribers to its free credit score platform, JustMoney is a trusted voice in the personal finance sector. Subscribe here.

Caption: Stay vigilant this holiday season to safeguard your finances online, says JustMoney.co.za.

Press Release Submitted By

Company Name: JustMoney.co.za
Website: www.justmoney.co.za
Contact: Sarah Nicholson, Operations Manager

Total Words: 877

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Stay Safe from Cybercrime This Holiday Season!
Protect yourself from scams and fraud with expert tips from JustMoney. Awareness is your first line of defence!

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