McAfee lists 12 of the most common holiday scams

The winter holidays are just around the corner, which means cybercriminals and scammers are moving at high speed. Security provider McAfee has issued some advice to warn mobile users about the 12 most common scams they may encounter during this period.

1. If you are looking to install apps on your mobile phone, make sure to only download from trusted websites and app stores. Many malicious mobile apps can steal sensitive information from your device.
2. During the holidays, scammers will bombard potential victims with text messages advertising apps or updates. The same advice applies. Don't download anything from websites you don't know and trust.
3. Be on the lookout for promotions that seem too good to be true. Scams promising unique deals on popular gadgets can ruin your vacation.
4. If you want to travel during the holiday season, be careful of ads from tour operators. Avoid clicking on links received via email and do not do anything before making sure the travel company is legitimate.
5. Many people send e-cards during the holidays. If you get one from someone you don't know, don't open it, as it could lead to a dangerous website or a piece of malware.
6. Cybercriminals often disguise their malicious applications as games. To avoid falling victim to such attacks, only download popular online games from trusted websites. Additionally, since fake applications can be added to trusted websites, be sure to check the reviews before downloading.
7. With everyone buying gifts online, the number of fake notifications is likely to increase. Please check these messages carefully before clicking on the links they contain or opening their attachments.
8. Fake gift cards can be seen all year round, but during the holidays, we are likely to see more of them. If you want to buy gift cards, buy only from official retailers and not from third-party websites.
9. SMS phishing or SMSishing is also a problem. Never respond to SMS messages asking for sensitive information.
10. If you want to donate, beware of fake charities. Websites and emails can be designed to mimic the real thing, so be extra careful.
11. If you want to sign up for dating sites, beware of romance scams. People have lost up to hundreds of thousands of dollars to scammers.
12. When shopping online, make sure the websites you purchase from are secure. If you buy something from a fake site, you will never see the product you ordered or the money you paid for it.