Summer, a season associated with vacations, barbecues, and carefree enjoyment, is also, unfortunately, a peak period for credit fraud, for the theft of personal data and for other cyber-attacks. As the sun shines and vacation plans take shape, fraudsters are also gearing up for their own activities, which in 2023 – according to CRIF Cyber Observatory - lead to 7.5 billion data stolen globally and put into circulation on the dark web or on messaging platforms. The warm months bring unique risks for consumers, with criminals exploiting relaxed security measures and increased spending. But why exactly does credit card and other fraud rise with the temperature? Let’s dive into the reasons behind this seasonal surge and explore strategies for safeguarding oneself.
Prime targets: frenetic schedules and travel plans
Fraudsters are opportunists and take advantage of times when consumers are most likely to be distracted or less vigilant. Summer presents an ideal convergence of such opportunities. Here's how:
- Increased Travel: Summer represents the top of vacation season. People are busy planning last minute trips, booking flights and hotels, and making online purchases related to travel. This flurry of activity can obscure fraudulent charges, making them harder to detect.
- Relaxed Vigilance: With vacations on their minds, consumers might be less inclined to meticulously check their credit card statements. The sense of leisure can lead to a more relaxed approach to financial monitoring.
- Deviation from Routine Spending: Summer often involves changes from regular spending patterns. Dining at new restaurants, trying out novel activities, and indulging in souvenirs all contribute to shifts in credit card usage. This makes it easier for fraudulent charges to go unnoticed.
Beyond travel: the broader landscape of summer fraud
While travel-related scams are a major concern, summer fraud extends beyond vacation activities. Here are other areas to exercise caution:
- Seasonal Job Scams: With students on break, summer becomes a popular time for part-time job searches. Fraudsters exploit this by posting fake job listings that involve sending money or sharing personal information.
- Summer Event Scams: From music festivals to sporting events, summer is full of gatherings. Fraudsters create counterfeit ticket-selling websites or social media accounts to pilfer money and credit card details.
- Increased Online Shopping: Warmer weather often translates to more online shopping for summer attire, outdoor gear, and other seasonal items. This surge in online transactions heightens the risk of encountering phishing scams or fraudulent online stores.
Fraud tactics intensify with technology
Technology serves as a double-edged sword in the realm of summer fraud. While it offers convenient payment methods, it also opens new avenues for fraudsters. Consider the following:
- Skimming and shimming: Although less common due to chip-and-pin technology, fraudsters may still employ skimming devices at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals to steal card data during the summer rush.
- Mobile wallets and contactless payments: The growing popularity of mobile wallets and contactless payments (such as tap-to-pay) introduces new vulnerabilities. Lost or stolen phones can be exploited for fraudulent purchases.
- Social engineering scams: Fraudsters leverage social media to gather personal information or deceive individuals into clicking on malicious links that harvest credit card details.
According to CRIF Cyber Observatory, continents where the largest exchanges of illicit credit card data take place are: North America, with 54.5 percent of the total volume, followed by Europe with 23.8 percent. Keep this in mind if you travel to these areas.
Stay skeptical and in control: protecting yourself against summer fraud
Despite the daunting fraud landscape, you can take steps to safeguard yourself:
- Close monitoring of statements: Regularly review your credit card statements, especially during and after summer vacations. Check any unfamiliar charges, regardless of their size.
- Caution with travel deals: If a travel deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Conduct thorough research before booking flights or accommodations through unfamiliar websites.
- Verify rental listings: Before booking a vacation rental, look for reviews and verify the property's existence through independent sources. Pay only through secure platforms and avoid direct money transfers.
- Guard your credit card: Keep your credit card within sight at restaurants or stores. Exercise vigilance when using ATMs. When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with your hand and avoid conducting financial transactions over public Wi-Fi.
Beyond the basics: advanced summer fraud protection
For an extra layer of security during the summer, consider these additional tips:
- Consider fraud protection tools: Some credit card companies offer fraud protection tools that monitor card activity and alert you of suspicious transactions.
- Secure your devices: Use robust passwords for online accounts and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. Be wary of clicking on links in emails or social media posts, particularly those related to summer events or special deals.
- Carry a limited number of cards: Minimize the number of credit cards you carry while traveling. Keep backups in a secure location in case of loss or theft.
- Be mindful of social media: Avoid sharing detailed vacation plans or itineraries on social media. This information can be used by fraudsters to target you with personalized scams.
- Public Wi-Fi Risks: Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking or email, on public Wi-Fi networks without a virtual private network (VPN).
- Stay informed: Stay updated on the latest summer fraud trends by following reputable financial institutions and security blogs.
Fraud Victim? Steps to Take!
Despite all precautions, it can still happen to be a victim of fraud. No panic and take action!
- Report the Fraud: Contact your bank or credit card company immediately if you suspect any fraudulent activity.
- Lost or stolen cards: If you lose your credit card or it is stolen, report it to your issuer immediately. They will cancel the card and issue you a new one. You will also need to monitor your credit report for any unauthorized activity.
- Change Your Passwords: Change the passwords for all of your online accounts.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized charges.
- File a Police Report: File a police report to document the crime.
Summer may be a time for relaxation, but it’s also a season when credit fraudsters are most active. By staying informed and proactive, you can protect yourself and enjoy the sunny days without falling victim to financial scams. Stay vigilant!
