The holidays are supposed to be relaxing, fun, and full of good moments. Unfortunately, they are also one of the busiest seasons for cybercriminals. With people shopping online, traveling, buying gifts, and opening new devices, attackers know this is the perfect time to strike.
At Hacked.com, we help thousands of people every year who suddenly lose access to their online accounts or discover suspicious activity. To help you avoid that stress this Christmas, here are the most important things to watch out for.
1. Watch Out for Fake Delivery Message
This is one of the biggest scams in December. You get a text or email that looks like it is from DHL, UPS, FedEx, or your local postal service. It says your package needs attention or that something went wrong with delivery. The link sends you to a fake page that steals your login or payment details.
How to stay safe:
• Do not click the link.
• Go directly to the retailer or shipping provider’s website to check your order.
2. Double Check Online Stores Before You Buy
Scam stores pop up everywhere during the holidays. They often run huge sales, look just real enough, take your money, and disappear.
Before purchasing:
• Look for real reviews.
• Check how long the website has existed.
• Use safe payment options like credit cards or PayPal.
If it feels sketchy or the price feels too good to be true, trust your instinct.
3. Turn On 2-Step Verification Everywhere
Attackers love December because people are distracted. All it takes is one rushed click on a phishing message and they have your password. Two-step verification creates a strong second layer of protection.
Enable it on:
• Email
• Apple ID or Google account
• Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
• Banking apps
It only takes a minute and can prevent a huge headache later.
4. Never Pay with Gift Cards or Crypto When Asked Unexpectedly
No real business, government office, or retailer will ever ask you to pay using gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. These payments cannot be reversed, which is why scammers use them.
If anyone tells you to pay this way, stop immediately. It is a scam.
5. Update New Devices and Use Strong Passwords
Many households get new phones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices at Christmas. Fresh devices without updates or strong passwords are easy targets.
Before using a new device:
• Install all updates.
• Change default passwords.
• Create strong and unique passwords.
If the device is for a child, set it up safely first.
6. Use Parental Controls on Kids’ Devices
Kids click everything. Scammers know it. Without parental controls, they are more likely to download dangerous apps, fall for pop-ups, or make accidental purchases.
Set up:
• Screen time limits
• App restrictions
• Content filters
• Approval for purchases
These settings protect your kids and your accounts.
7. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Shopping or Logging In
Holiday travel means airports, hotels, cafés, and Christmas markets. Free Wi-Fi often looks safe but is one of the easiest places for attackers to intercept your information.
Use mobile data instead. If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid logging in to important accounts or entering payment details.
8. Keep an Eye on Your Bank Accounts
Fraud often starts with tiny test charges. Do not wait until January to find something strange.
During the holidays:
• Check your bank and card activity regularly.
• Turn on alerts for new purchases.
• Report unfamiliar transactions immediately.
If Something Feels Off, Get Help Fast
The sooner you react, the easier it is to stop damage. Many people wait too long because they hope an issue will resolve itself. It rarely does.
Hacked.com has helped more than 40,000 people recover accounts, secure devices, and get peace of mind. If you see suspicious logins, hacked social media accounts, strange emails, or activity you do not recognize, we can help right away.