As we head into the festive season, it’s a time to relax, celebrate and connect with loved ones. But while we’re enjoying the holidays, cybercriminals are working overtime. Scammers know this is when our guard can slip, and they’re ready to take advantage (even at Christmas!).
Did you know? Last year, UK shoppers lost almost £86 million to online shopping and marketplace scams, where items were paid for but never delivered. And no, it’s not your mince pies they’re after.
What to watch out for
- Fake delivery notifications impersonating familiar couriers like DPD or Royal Mail.
- Bogus notices about unpaid TV licences, vehicle licences or HMRC tax rebates.
- Phoney Amazon orders, eGift card scams, charity appeals and “too good to be true” seasonal offers.
Cybercriminals exploit goodwill, urgency and curiosity to steal sensitive commercial or personal information. A single misplaced click can expose accounts, devices and ultimately, your business.
My advice (for work and home)
- Think before you click: Scrutinise links and attachments, especially where the message creates urgency.
- If something feels off, report it: Escalate suspicious emails to security/IT or use official reporting tools.
- Never share personal details with strangers: Avoid giving passwords, OTPs or payment info over email or phone.
- Strengthen your basics: Use strong passwords, enable MFA, and keep devices updated.
- Be sceptical of “seasonal deals”: Verify sellers and check reviews before buying.
We’re here for you, 24/7, even at Christmas
While you’re enjoying the holidays, our Security Operations Centre (SOC) team is on watch around the clock every day, including Christmas. Their mission? To keep your environment secure so you can focus on what matters most. It’s part of our client-first commitment: proactive monitoring, rapid response, and peace of mind, no matter the season.
How we can help: Book your Security Doctor assessment
If you’d like an expert checkup on your Microsoft 365 security posture before the New Year, our Security Doctor assessment provides rapid, actionable insight with minimal disruption. It includes:
- A short discovery call to align on goals.
- An automated tenant analysis across identity, devices, data and licensing.
- A tailored report and roadmap aligned to Microsoft best practices and CIS benchmarks, highlighting quick wins, risk reduction and cost-saving opportunities.
Book your Security Doctor assessment
What’s included
- Standards-based review
- Identify gaps, overlaps & misconfigs
- Prioritised, practical remediation plan
- Executive-level summary report