As the holiday shopping season approaches, Palo Alto Networks emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity amid the growing risks of online scams and fraud. High shopping events like 12.12 Sales and holiday travel bookings see a surge in digital transactions, making consumers prime targets for cybercriminals.
Citing available data, Palo Alto Networks said the Philippines reported $8.1 billion in losses to online scams in 2024, highlighting the need for vigilance.
“The first line of protection is always proactive defense,” Oscar Visaya, country manager for Palo Alto Networks in the Philippines, said in a media advisory. “Businesses must proactively secure their platforms and consumers should remain vigilant to ensure safety and security this holiday season.”
Increased reliance on QR codes (53%) and mobile wallets (68%) for payments further exposes consumers to threats like phishing, malicious software, and deepfake scams. Palo Alto Networks suggests the following best practices for online safety:
- Verify authenticity: Double-check emails and links for misspellings, unusual domains, or suspicious attachments.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add a layer of security to online accounts.
- Shop on official platforms: Stick to trusted websites for purchases.
- Beware of phishing scams: Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
- Strengthen passwords: Use unique, strong passwords or a password manager.
- Avoid sharing personal information: Never disclose sensitive details without verification.
For businesses, adopting a Zero Trust approach is key to combating threats like phishing, ransomware, and DDoS attacks. This model ensures strict verification for every user and device accessing systems.
“Whether you’re a business owner, employee, or consumer, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility,” Visaya added. “By fostering vigilance and a Zero Trust mindset, we can protect ourselves during this high-risk season.”