How to stay safe online this Black Friday with tips from cybersecurity experts
A staggering 68% of South Africans reported being targeted by online fraud during the last festive season, which is why Vuma is urging everyone to click wisely and stay cybersafe this October.
As South Africans gear up for Black Friday, cybercriminals are gearing up too. A recent survey found that 68% of South Africans were targeted by fraud between August and December 2024 and one in three lost money as a result.
October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and fibre provider Vuma is encouraging internet users to be more cautious online.
“Technology empowers people to do extraordinary things, but it’s only truly powerful when we use it safely and confidently,” says Simon Butler, chief commercial officer at Vuma. “By practising smart digital habits and looking out for one another, we can make the internet safer for everyone.”
Read more: Streetlights burning 24/7? Here’s how to report them
Butler says this is how to outsmart the scammers with his tips.
- Rename your Wi-Fi and create a guest zone
If your Wi-Fi name still looks like VumaFibre_1234, you’re practically inviting hackers for tea. Rename it to something unrecognisable and secure it with a strong password. Also, consider setting up a guest network for your smart home devices such as bulbs, cameras, and speakers to isolate them from your personal devices.
- Think before you scan that QR code
Not every QR code leads to a discount some lead to disaster. Scammers are hiding malicious links behind fake QR codes on flyers, store posters, and even receipts. Check if the branding looks legitimate and avoid scanning anything suspicious.
Also read: Lonehill’s spooktacular Trick or Treat raises funds for community projects
- Lock down your digital front door
Your phone is as personal as your home so treat it that way. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA), unique passwords for each account, and keep your recovery details private. Make sure your router, antivirus software, and firewalls are all updated and “talking” to each other for an extra layer of defence.
- When in doubt, report it out
Suspicious message? Fake-looking link? Report it immediately to your bank, internet service provider (ISP), or the SAPS Digital Crime Unit. One report can help protect an entire community from falling for the same scam.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates!
