The festive season brings magic and celebration — but also new cybersecurity risks. This year, artificial intelligence is finding its way under the tree, not just to help write wish lists or craft cheerful greetings. Cybercriminals are using it too, to make their attacks smarter and harder to spot.
It used to be easy to recognise a fake email - awkward phrasing or obvious typos gave them away. With AI, scammers can now craft convincing, well-written messages that look perfectly legitimate.
Start by reading the tips below, then take our Special Christmas Cybersecurity Quiz to test your resistance to attacks in Santa’s workshop!
During the festive season, vigilance drops
At this time of year, inboxes overflow, online shopping spikes — and our attention slips… exactly what hackers are counting on.
Imagine this: you’ve just ordered a toy for your niece, and the next day you get a message from “the Post Office” saying there’s a delivery issue. The logo looks perfect, the tone is professional… but the link leads to a fake website designed to steal your banking details.
The good news ? You can still stay one step ahead.
Smart habits to avoid the traps
Before reacting to any email, keep a few simple habits in mind:
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Pay attention to links: to check what’s really behind a link, hover your mouse over it (without clicking).
On a smartphone, press and hold the link until the full address appears.
Every link leads somewhere — but not always where you think! -
Look at the bigger picture: were you expecting this message? Does it create a sense of urgency or play on your emotions? Does it promise something that seems too good to be true? Stay sceptical.
An unusual tone or a slightly off-looking design can also be signs of fraud. -
Be cautious with emails asking you to interact: emails that prompt you to click a link, enter a password or open an attachment are red flags! Take a moment to think before you act.
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Don’t rely on the sender’s address alone: even if it looks legitimate, it can easily be faked.
However, if it looks suspicious or incorrect, that’s a clear sign of fraud.
If in doubt, go directly to the official website or contact the organisation through a trusted channel.
And now — time for a challenge!
Can you keep Santa’s workshop secure?
Help Santa’s elves earn their cybersecurity certificate and test your knowledge with our special Christmas Quiz!
The Navixia team wishes you a safe and joyful festive season!
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