Cyber Monday Reminder to Stay Safe Online

The IT Services Security Team encourages all students, faculty and staff to stay informed about security risks that threaten the security of personal information.

The 12 most common scams in 2012 include:

Social Media Scams
Social media sites like Facebook and Twitter can make you vulnerable to attacks. Compromised user accounts often post malicious links that appear to come from a friend. Avoid installing "holiday deal" apps or clicking on anything suspicious or unfamiliar. On Twitter, watch out for posts advertising special deals with shortened URLs that could point to malicious sites.

Smartphone and Tablet App Scams
Download applications from the official app store to avoid downloading malicious software designed to steal your information or send premium-rate text messages. Read user reviews before downloading a new app to make sure it is legitimate.

Travel Scams
Beware of offers that sound too good to be true when you're booking travel arrangements online. Clicking an ad for low travel prices could download malicious software or trick you into filling out a form with your personal information.

The FBI is warning users of a known scam prompting users to install malicious software before connecting to hotel Wi-Fi. Update your security software before traveling to avoid scams like this.

Holiday Phishing Scams
Some email you get this holiday season could be trying to trick you into providing personal information by posing as an offer for the perfect gift. Do not fill out forms for special deals unless you trust the company and see the "S" in "https" in the link.

Never click on direct links in an email. Copy and paste links into your browser to be sure you're not being tricked into downloading malicious websites.

iPad, iPhone 5, and Other Holiday Gift Scams
Online attackers often mention the latest devices in malicious links, fake contests and phishing scams.

Skype Messaging Scam
Skype users should beware of instant messages reading "Lol is this your new profile pic?" Clicking on the link in the message downloads a virus. This known scam attempts to infect your computer and quarantine your files.

Fake Gift Card Scams
Avoid buying gift cards from third parties. Always make sure you're purchasing from the official retailer.

Holiday Text Message Phishing
Scammers try to trick users into providing personal information by posing as a legitimate organization. Never provide personal information using text.

Fake Online Stores
Be careful of where you enter your credit card number when shopping online. Avoid phony sites attempting to trick you into entering your information.

Charity Scams
Some scammers spoof real charities such as the Red Cross, using stolen logos and text. Give safely this year by avoiding third-party donation sites. Always go to the source and make sure you're using the real website.

Malicious E-cards
Some e-cards contain spyware and viruses. Don't click on email from unknown sources.

Classified Ad Scams
Scammers use classified ads, such as on Craigslist, to gather personal information. Never wire funds through the Western Union when responding to a classified ad.