Cybersecurity During the Holidays – Protecting Your Family’s Digital World

The December episode of Sunsets & Snowdrifts explores the intersection of cybersecurity and holiday cheer, emphasizing the importance of protecting loved ones in an empathetic and approachable way.

Hosts Evan and Michael shared candid stories, practical advice, and relatable experiences to help listeners navigate the season safely.

Episode Recap

Here’s a recap of the episode’s key themes and the top ten reminders they highlighted for practicing good cybersecurity during the holidays.

Personal Examples

Evan and Michael began the episode by sharing personal anecdotes about their families’ varying levels of tech savviness. They discussed how the holidays often bring opportunities to educate loved ones about cybersecurity without overwhelming them.

Our hosts also shared the importance of framing these conversations as acts of care rather than fearmongering, ensuring everyone feels supported and empowered.

One particularly memorable story involved a relative falling victim to a phishing scam. Instead of scolding, Michael highlighted how offering understanding and support fosters an environment where people feel safe seeking help when needed.

Tackling Holiday Scams

The episode also explored how scammers exploit holiday emotions like excitement and urgency. Whether it’s limited-time deals or charity scams, Evan and Michael urged listeners to be aware of the tactics that play on fear of missing out (FOMO) or guilt.

Michael shared a humorous yet poignant example of a friend who recognized a PayPal scam after education from past conversations. These real-world examples underscored the value of proactive education.

Top 10 Cybersecurity Reminders for the Holidays

Toward the end of the episode, the hosts shared ten actionable reminders to help listeners and their families stay safe:

10. Don’t click on sh*t.

9. You don’t need to star in a holiday special! Unless you’re hosting Elf on a Shelf Live, cover that web cam when not in use.

8. Don’t friend the Grinch of Nigeria! Your bank details won’t lead to a holiday rom-com—they’ll lead to a scam.

7. Think before you overshare—don’t gift hackers the answers to your security questions.

6. Don’t click on sh*t! Seriously, stop.

5. Update before you eggnog. Tipsy maintenance never ends well.

4. Turn off smart devices when watching hallmark movies. Your Alexa doesn’t need to hear you ugly-cry over Christmas Under the Mistletoe.

3. Elves don’t ask for gift cards, especially via text.

2. Use strong passwords, not “HoHoHo123.”

And the number one reminder for the holiday season…

1. DON’T CLICK ON SH*T!!!

The episode’s heartfelt conclusion emphasizes that cybersecurity is an extension of love and care. By creating a culture of openness and support, we can empower our families to navigate the digital world confidently.

Whether it’s explaining the importance of MFA to a parent or helping a friend recognize a scam, these small acts make a significant impact.

This holiday season, take the time to not only connect with your loved ones but also help them stay safe online. Cybersecurity is about more than technology—it’s about protecting what matters most.

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