According to recent studies, people are 15 times more likely to fall victim to cyber scams through their mobile devices, such as phones and tablets, than through their computers. In this context, Movistar, in collaboration with McAfee, has launched a set of recommendations
News Colombia.
Cyber scams during the holiday season are on the rise. Any click online without prior review can be dangerous. This article recommends some keys that Movistar, in collaboration with McAfee, has provided not only for its clients, but for the community in general.
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During Christmas, online activity increases significantly, with more people making purchases through their mobile devices and connecting on public WiFi networks. This has made cell phones and tablets the preferred target of cybercriminals.
According to McAfee’s 2024 Seasonal Global Purchase Fraud Study, criminals are now using AI-based tools to create fraudulent messages that appear completely legitimate, even from well-known brands.
This increase in cyber scams is reflected in the fact that, during the holiday season, only half of buyers consistently verify the authenticity of the messages they receive. AND
In many cases, users don’t stop to check the links or source of a message, leaving them vulnerable to scams disguised as attractive offers.
Protection against cyber scams with McAfee and Movistar
With the aim of protecting users from these risks, Movistar has made its Total Security service available, in collaboration with McAfee. This service offers comprehensive protection for mobile devices, including password protection, identity and secure browsing.
Additionally, as a novelty for this Christmas season, it incorporates a text message scam detector powered by artificial intelligence, specially designed to identify and block fraudulent messages.
Luis Germán Peña, market director of Movistar Colombia, highlighted: “It is essential that all users are aware of the risks of cybersecurity, especially during shopping times such as Christmas.
At Movistar, we offer digital and anti-fraud protection from $12,500 pesos per month, with which up to three devices can be protected, and includes tools such as the detection of fraudulent messages, secure VPN, and identity protection.”
Basic tips for a cyber-safe Christmas
Movistar has drawn up a list of recommendations that users You can follow to improve your cybersecurity habits during the holidays:
- Change all your passwords: Take advantage of this time to update the passwords for your most important accounts: credit cards, banking applications, social networks, emails and Wi-Fi. Be sure to create complex passwords, including uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. It is advisable to use a password manager to avoid repeating them on different sites.
2.Check links before clicking: If you receive a message with an offer that is too tempting or a link related to a “must receive” package, do not click on it until you verify its authenticity. It is best to confirm with a call or direct message to the source.
3.Detect fake pages: Many times, the links we find on social networks redirect us to fraudulent pages. If you want to make a purchase, always go directly to the company’s official website and avoid clicking on shortened links or links from dubious sources.
4. Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and location when you don’t need them: To avoid security risks, it is advisable to turn off these functions when you are not using them, especially in public places such as terminals, airports or shopping centers. Also, make sure your device is protected with an antivirus and a VPN to browse safely.
5. Acquire a digital protection service: Mobile devices are vulnerable to various types of attacks, such as malware, phishing, and identity theft. An updated digital protection service, such as McAfee in partnership with Movistar, will give you peace of mind during your online purchases and other digital activities.
Evaluation of your cybersecurity level
To help you evaluate how aware you are of cybersecurity, Movistar presents a personal cyber protection calculator. With a simple questionnaire, you can get a score and understand what digital security habits you need to improve. Answer the following questions from 1 to 5 (1 being “you never do it” and 5 being “you always do it”):
- Have you changed your email password this year?
- Have you changed your home Wi-Fi password this year?
- Do you turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and location on your cell phone when you don’t need them?
- Do you check the links that come to you on social networks or instant messengers before clicking?
- Do you keep the applications on your mobile updated?
- Do you update the antivirus that you have installed on your mobile?
Results:
- If your score is greater than 24: Very aware of cybersecurity.
- Between 12 and 23: Moderately aware of cybersecurity.
- Less than 12: Little aware of cybersecurity.
Movistar Total Security
For those interested in improving their digital security, Movistar offers Total Security, a service that protects your devices, your family and your information online. If you want more information on how to protect your Wi-Fi, you can consult the following link: How to change your Movistar Wi-Fi password.
With these tips and tools, Movistar and McAfee invite you to enjoy a safer Christmas free of cyber fraud. Remember that protection starts with a single conscious click!
