Easter is a magnet for attempted fraud

Easter is a time when many of us are more relaxed and less alert than at other times of the year. We are busy planning holidays, making Easter breakfasts, and maybe even going on holiday abroad. Unfortunately, this relaxed attitude makes us even easier prey for fraudsters who are ready to take advantage of any opportunity. One of the most common forms of Easter fraud is email fraud. During Easter, fraudsters send out thousands of emails that appear to come from well-known companies, banks or even government institutions.

These emails can ask for anything from personal information such as passwords or credit card numbers to information about your business, your boss or bogus unpaid invoices. Their goal is to create both stress and fear in you, so that you will "solve" the task as quickly as possible. Are you perhaps the type of person who does a lot to prevent the Easter treats from being ruined? Even if we have time off from work, we tend to check the inbox, and then an email can feel even more urgent to respond to. Then there is a good chance that you will go right on!

A good rule to remember is: Sserious organizations will never ask for sensitive information via e-mail or SMS. If you receive an email or SMS that you want to respond to or reply to, we recommend calling or contacting them in a different way than they contacted you, to be sure.

Tips to protect yourself from Easter scams

  • Be skeptical of unknown emails: Before clicking on links or replying to emails from unknown senders, take some time to assess whether it is truly legitimate. Does the email look suspicious? Did it come out of the blue? Check the sender address carefully, and pay particular attention to typos or grammatical errors.
  • Use strong passwords: Make sure your passwords are strong and unique for each account. Avoid using simple combinations such as dates of birth or familiar words. We recommend a minimum of 14 characters where you combine both upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters for each account.
  • Keep your software up to date: Make sure the operating system and all software on your devices are updated with the latest securitythe rights updates. Fraudsters often exploit known vulnerabilities in older versions of software to install malware on your devices. Are you logged in to your children's devices? Make sure they are up to date as well. Better to be careful!
  • Be careful with public wifi: Avoid performing sensitive actions, such as logging into bank accounts or shopping online, when connected to public Wi-Fi networks. These networks are often unsecured and can make it easy for fraudsters to intercept sensitive information. In general, we recommend using your own Wi-Fi or mobile data every time you go online while travelling. 
  • Verify before you shop: If you are offered a good deal or come across an advertisement from unknown websites during Easter shopping, take the time to verify the website's authenticity before entering personal information or making a payment. Check for reviews from other customers and look for security certificates on the site. Feel free to Google the name of the website and write "experiences" behind it. Then you will often quickly discover more about the website in question. 

Pay attention or take time off completely
Easter is a time to relax and enjoy time with family and friends, but it is also a time when fraudsters are extra active and ready to get you. By being aware and following some simple safety tips, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming a victim of Easter scams. By being proactive and taking precautions, you can ensure that your Easter is filled with coziness. 

Take the time to be skeptical and observant. Or you can land off and take the day off! It also lowers the chance of becoming a victim. Mobile-free hours and days are always healthy! Then you can check your email again when your brain is back in work mode. 

We wish you and those around you a wonderful Easter!