The Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team issued an alert to remind internet users to exercise caution online this holiday season.
Emails and ecards from unknown senders may contain malicious links and attachments to fake advertisements or shipping notifications may be infected with malware, the alert reads. The warning also alerts users of potentially spoofed emails, in which the sender manipulates their address to appear as if it came from a legitimate source, and falsified social media posts that may seek support for fraudulent causes.
To avoid falling victim to identity theft or a security breach, U.S.-CERT is recommending users avoid downloading attachments or following links from unknown sources. Users can also review the U.S.-CERT tipsheet on safe online shopping practices.
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