Company releases '12 Scams of the Holidays' list

LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - McAfee, the computer security software company, has announced its annual 12 Scams of the Holidays list for consumers to help them avoid unwrapping an online threat while surfing digital devices.

Cybersecurity threats heighten during the holiday season as consumers unknowingly share personal data across their devices.

The 12 scams include:

1. You've Got Mail: Think twice before clicking links in shipping notification emails, and always verify the shipping company before giving out personal information.
2. Deceptive Advertising: Beware of deals that are too good to be true as they could steal your personal information and ruin your holiday cheer.
3. Chilling Charities: 'Tis the season to donate, but be wary of fake charities. Do your research and double-check the site URL.
4. Buyer Beware: Check your credit card statements to make sure you don't have unwanted charges as a result of a point-of-sale breach.
5. iScams: Today, smartphones act as a phone, a credit card, a house key, a camera and more. Malware can access your device via apps, so do your research and stick to official app stores to download.
6. Getting Carded: Avoid the unwanted gift of malware and always verify that e-cards are from someone you know and are from a trustworthy site.
7. Holiday Travel Scams: Avoid fake online deal links offering low price airfare or hotel rooms that could be a trap. Think before you click.
8. Bank Robocall Scam: Be suspicious of phone calls from people who claim your computer is infected and request your personal information to fix it.
9. ATM Skimming: Need cash in a hurry? Beware of using ATMs as a skimmer device designed to steal data off the card may be installed. Look carefully at the ATM and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
10. Year in Review Traps: While a "Year in Review" sounds entertaining to read, clicking on these links could infect your devices.
11. BYO... Device: With the hustle and bustle of the season, smartphones could easily be lost or stolen in the shuffle. Don't leave your smartphone unattended during the hectic holiday season as it could give hackers access to your personal and work information.
12. Bad USB Blues: Be wary of free USB drives that are often used as giveaways. This method is an easy way for hackers to spread malware.

For more information about staying safe digitally during the holiday season, visit McAfee.com.

WAVE 3 News.  Louisville, Kentucky