As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with the excitement of holiday sales. Shoppers are lured by the prospect of slashed prices and exclusive offers, embarking on a virtual shopping spree to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones.
In today’s digital world, where online transactions are the norm, the value of digital literacy cannot be underestimated. With an abundance of online products to choose from, users must arm themselves with the know-how to navigate safely, especially during the holiday shopping craze.
Jilbert, an avid online shopper, is always looking for the best holiday deals. While browsing the virtual aisles, he comes across an irresistible offer – a significant discount on a popular online store. Excited by the prospect of saving money, Jilbert quickly clicks on the link and is taken to a website that appears to be the real deal.
Without hesitation, he enters his personal information, including his name, address, and debit card details. Little does he know that he has fallen prey to a clever phishing scam designed to steal his sensitive information and exploit his trust.
After Jilbert’s unfortunate encounter with online scammers, it is crucial to bring attention to implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect against phishing attacks and other online threats.
Are you ready to outsmart cybercriminals?
Carlyn Nical is becoming accustomed to paying for the items she purchases on a popular online shopping app through cashless transactions. She finds it more convenient and hassle-free to pay this way. However, she always exercises caution when using online shopping apps. (Photo: PIA Leyte)
Raffy Villones eagerly anticipates the opportunity to take advantage of discounts and free shipping offers when shopping online. To protect his personal information, he is cautious about the details he shares while browsing the internet. (Photo: PIA Leyte)
Tip #1: Stay phish-savvy
Stay one step ahead of phishing scams by honing your detective skills and carefully examining emails and messages for discrepancies. Don’t fall for their tricks; never click on questionable links or divulge sensitive information in response to unsolicited requests. Protect yourself and your data like a true champion.
Tip #2: Mind the details
Don’t let cybercriminals fool you. By carefully scrutinizing their messages for grammar or spelling errors, you can uncover their illegitimate schemes and stay one step ahead of their malicious intentions. Stay vigilant and keep your guard up.
Tip #3: Exercise caution with links and attachments
Explore the world of safe and secure digital communication by avoiding suspicious links and downloads from unverified sources and safeguarding yourself against harmful malware and phishing attacks.
Tip #4: Protect your fortress
Don’t let your sensitive details fall into the wrong hands. Always check if the website is secure (look for “https://”) before entering personal information. Stay safe and secure while surfing the web.
Tip #5: Password fortification
One of the best ways to do this is by regularly changing your passwords and using a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols to create unbreakable combinations. With this simple step, you can keep your personal information safe and sound and enjoy peace of mind, knowing that you are one step ahead of any potential cyber threats.
Tip #6: Browser vigilance
Embrace the latest security patches and enhancements, fortifying your defenses against cyber attackers who are always looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. Enjoy a faster, more seamless browsing experience with all the latest features and functionalities at your fingertips. Stay ahead of the game and keep your web browsers up-to-date.
Tip #7: Guard with antivirus software
You won’t believe how much safer and more secure your system can be with the help of cutting-edge antivirus software. Prepare to defend against online threats, from sneaky malware to troublesome viruses. With this powerful extra layer of protection, you can finally rest assured that your system is always in good hands.
These are some of the pointers on how to avoid becoming a victim of a phishing scam, according to the Philippine National Police.
The unseen guardian of cyberspace
Amidst the tales of holiday shopping woes, one luminary in cybersecurity stands out for her unwavering dedication to safeguarding our digital landscape. Her works highlight the importance of continuous education and vigilance in the face of the ever-evolving threat in the cyber realm.
Claire Fernandez, Provincial Officer at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) – Eastern Visayas, is a zealous advocate for digital literacy and resilience. She continues to conduct ASEAN Digital Literacy Programme (ADLP) training in government agencies, schools, and communities across the Eastern Visayas region.
“It hurts me when I hear stories, especially from friends and relatives, that they got scammed or their accounts got hacked. Doing this cybersecurity awareness campaign would give them the basic knowledge on protecting their account, especially on social media,” Fernandez said.
“For young generations right now, I’m sure they are very exposed to social media and the digital world; we submerge in it. So, let’s be careful. We should be cautious and not easily trust anyone, especially if we meet them for the first time. We should also protect ourselves by limiting the information we share online,” Fernandez added.
Her unwavering efforts reached new heights when she triumphed over representatives from nine other ASEAN countries. In a remarkable achievement, she secured the coveted Best Master Trainer award during the ASEAN Digital Literacy Programme (DLP) Impact Forum in Bali, Indonesia, on November 14-16, 2023.
Claire Fernandez (3rd from left) and other awardees during the ASEAN Digital Literacy Programme Impact Forum in Bali, Indonesia, on Nov. 14-16, 2023. (Photo courtesy of Claire Fernandez)
Provincial Officer Claire Fernandez (right) of DICT-8 with Joie Cruz from Limitless Lab, the implementing partner for the ADLP. (Photo courtesy of Claire Fernandez)
“I was shocked and teary-eyed. I didn’t expect the award. I’m so happy. I thanked God for giving me the opportunity. Iba din kasi yung na hi-highlight yung efforts mo. Overall, I’m so filled with gratitude and nakakataba ng puso,” Fernandez expressed.
As we enter the holiday season, let us reflect on Jilbert’s cautionary tale and Claire’s triumph, emphasizing the significance of digital literacy and cybersecurity. During this time of generosity, the most valuable present we can offer ourselves and those around us is the ability to navigate the digital realm confidently and safely.
Make it a habit to take screenshots of suspicious text and online transactions for easy reporting to the nearest local law enforcement office, such as the PNP anti-cybercrime group or the National Bureau of Investigation. (LDL/AAC/PIA Leyte)
