Cyber threats don’t slow down for the holidays. As we close out the year, attack activity typically spikes, driven by increased online shopping, travel, hybrid work, and end-of-year financial transactions. In this month’s Threat Watch, Common Knowledge Technology highlights the major threats trending right now and what individuals and organizations should stay alert to.
1. AI-Enhanced Phishing & Deepfake Scams
Phishing remains the most widespread cyber threat worldwide, but the tactics have evolved. Attackers are now using AI to create:
- Ultra-realistic emails
- Deepfake voicemails prompting urgent action
- Fake customer-service chats impersonating major brands
These attacks spike during the holiday season when people are more likely to click shipping notifications, discount links, or travel updates.
2. Malicious Holiday Shopping Sites
Fake e-commerce stores and fraudulent “holiday deals” pages are surging. These sites:
- Steal credit card information
- Install malware
- Harvest personal data for further attacks
If a deal looks too good to be true, it likely is.
3. Ransomware Targeting Critical Infrastructure & Cloud Services
Ransomware groups remain active, with recent tactics focused on:
- Vulnerable cloud accounts
- Third-party service providers
- Misconfigured remote access portals
- Attacks timed during holidays when IT support is limited
Even individuals are being impacted through compromised personal cloud accounts and stolen data.
4. Clone Apps & Malware Masquerading as Legitimate Tools
Attackers increasingly disguise malware as trusted software, including:
- Communication tools
- AI apps
- Financial management software
- Popular mobile apps (often shared via social media links)
These clones often appear identical to the real thing but deliver spyware, credential theft tools, or remote access malware.
5. QR Code Scams (Quishing)
With QR code usage at an all-time high for payments, reservations, and travel check-ins, attackers have leaned heavily into “quishing.”
Fake QR codes placed in public areas or emailed to users lead to:
- Credential-harvesting websites
- Malicious downloads
- Fake payment portals
Always verify QR codes, especially those received unexpectedly.
6. Gift Card & Payment Diversion Frauds
Seasonal shopping and gifting create opportunities for attackers who:
- Impersonate support agents
- Claim order issues
- Request new payments or gift cards
- Redirect invoice payments
This affects consumers and organizations alike; especially those processing year-end financial transactions.
Want to stay ahead of emerging threats this season?
Common Knowledge Technology provides year-round threat monitoring, holiday-season security guidance, and rapid-response support for individuals and organizations.
Contact us today to strengthen your protections this December.
