The Interior Ministry’s Cybersecurity Center urged citizens to stay extra vigilant ahead of the New Year holidays. It noted that during this period online scammers take advantage of pre-holiday rush and the anticipation of gifts, becoming even more active than usual. Podrobno.uz reports.reports.
Experts said scammers are increasingly relying on psychological tactics and “social engineering.” Malicious links are widely spread in messengers and social networks, disguised as an interactive greeting card, a congratulatory message from colleagues, or a courier-service notice saying something like “a surprise has arrived for you.”
Users are often asked to install an “update” to view an image or to download a file sent as a “delivery note.” As a result, criminals may gain access to personal data and funds on bank cards.
The Center recommended carefully checking incoming messages to ensure the holidays pass peacefully. Even if a message comes from someone you know, you should not open unexpected links or files. Safer formats include standard image and video types such as .jpg, .png, .gif, or .mp4, while archives and program extensions may carry hidden threats.
The agency also urged people to avoid making advance payments when shopping online. An excessively low price for items for the Christmas tree or holiday table often turns out to be “bait”: after the money is transferred, sellers may disappear without a trace.
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
Users of Меҳмон are not allowed to comment this publication.
