The Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has launched a campaign to increase awareness about potential online shopping scams and other malicious activities ahead of the holiday shopping season.Â
CISA said Tuesday it created a new section on its website that lays out precautionary measures when buying gifts on the internet, including ensuring devices are updated, verifying the authenticity of online outlets and using safe methods for purchases.Â
The holiday season gives cybercriminals the opportunity to take advantage of unsuspecting online shoppers, Christopher Krebs, director of CISA and a 2019 Wash100 awardee, said in a video message posted on the website.Â
“The good news is you don’t need to be a cybersecurity pro to defend yourself. It’s often the simple things that make a big difference in protecting yourself and your family from cyber threats and scams,” Krebs added.
CISA intends to release additional resources and safety information next month to promote secure online shopping.Â