As the holiday season approaches, Kaspersky, a global leader in cybersecurity, is warning Filipinos about a significant uptick in cybercrime. With millions of consumers turning to online platforms for shopping, gift-giving, and socializing, the risk of falling victim to cybercriminals is rising.
According to Kaspersky, between July and September 2024, over 3.3 million web-based cyber threats were detected in the Philippines, with 28.3 percent of users exposed to these risks. The country ranked 8th globally in terms of web threat exposure, highlighting its vulnerability.
“Given the Philippines’ high exposure to cyber threats, it’s essential for individuals and businesses to stay vigilant,” said Adrian Hia, managing director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky. “Taking simple steps, such as using reliable security tools and being aware of common scams, can help prevent online incidents.”
Among the most common threats during the holiday season are phishing emails, fake websites, and file-less malware. Cybercriminals often disguise these attacks as holiday promotions or delivery updates, making it easier to deceive unsuspecting victims.
Kaspersky advises consumers to verify emails and links, secure online transactions with strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication (2FA). For businesses, regular system updates, employee training, and advanced cybersecurity tools like Kaspersky’s XDR solutions are key measures to defend against sophisticated threats.
Kaspersky continues to emphasize the importance of proactive security to safeguard both individuals and businesses from rising online threats this holiday season.
