The holidays are fun until your phone or computer gets hit by a scam. It happens every year in Calgary. People click a link while trying to grab a Christmas deal or rush through online shopping and accidentally download something suspicious. That is why December is one of the busiest months for tech repairs at STEM Support.
Here is what to watch for and how to protect your devices before something goes wrong.
1. Fake Delivery Texts
You will get at least one suspicious text during the holiday season. It usually says your package is delayed or that you need to click a link to reschedule delivery. Once you click it, malware downloads quietly in the background.
If the text looks strange, delete it. Never tap links from unknown numbers. If you already clicked one and your phone is acting weird, bring it to STEM Support for a quick scan.
2. Holiday Shopping Scams
Fake websites, fake coupons, fake Black Friday deals that feel too good to be true. Scammers design these pages to look real. You enter your info, the website steals it, and your device may get infected.
Always check the URL. If the website has strange spelling or extra letters, close the tab immediately.
3. Suspicious Emails
Christmas promo emails are everywhere which makes it harder to spot fake ones. If the email asks you to download a file or enter personal info, it is probably a scam.
Slow computers, pop ups, freezing, or new icons appearing can be signs of infection. We can clean and secure your device before it gets worse.
4. Protect Your iPhone and Computer Before It Happens
You can prevent most holiday scams by doing a simple pre season check.
At STEM Support we can:
• Update your software
• Remove hidden junk files
• Strengthen security settings
• Install trusted antivirus
• Check your iPhone and computer for hidden threats
A little prep can save your Christmas.