As live music concerts and sports matches make a triumphant return, South Africans are eagerly flocking back to stadiums and concert venues to indulge in their favorite pastimes. The excitement surrounding events like the Springboks versus Ireland test matches and the resurgence of international music acts such as James Blunt, Take That, Green Day, and The Offspring is palpable. However, amidst the rush to secure tickets online, there lurks a lurking threat of cyber risks.
Emmanuel Tzingakis, Technical Lead: Sub-Saharan Africa at Trend Micro, emphasizes the importance of vigilance in online transactions, particularly when it comes to purchasing tickets for major events. “Consumers need to be extra careful when it comes to booking for major concerts or sports matches, because there’s no doubt that cybercriminals will be looking for an opportunity to prey on unsuspecting victims,” says Tzingakis.
To aid consumers in navigating the digital landscape safely, Tzingakis shares his expert advice on staying secure when buying tickets online:
- Buy from a reputable ticket seller: Stick to approved and official ticket sellers endorsed by event organizers to avoid falling victim to ticket fraud. Ensure the platform employs robust security measures to safeguard your personal and financial information.
- Double check the website address: Verify the authenticity of the website by looking for the “https://” protocol and a padlock symbol in the address bar, indicating encryption and enhanced security measures. Avoid sites lacking these features to mitigate the risk of data interception by hackers.
- Be wary of phishing attempts: Exercise caution when receiving emails, SMSes, or messages purporting to be from legitimate organizations. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information in response to unsolicited communications, as these may be phishing scams aiming to steal sensitive data.
- Use strong passwords and activate 2FA: Create complex passwords comprising a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols to bolster account security. Additionally, opt for two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever available, adding an extra layer of protection by requiring a one-time code for account access.
Tzingakis underscores the importance of maintaining digital hygiene and cybersecurity awareness to thwart cybercriminals. “With some basic digital hygiene habits and cybersecurity awareness, consumers can stop cybercriminals in their tracks,” he advises.
As South Africans embrace the return of live events, adopting proactive measures to safeguard online transactions becomes imperative. By adhering to Tzingakis’ expert guidance, concertgoers and sports enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite spectacles with peace of mind, shielded from the perils of online ticket fraud and phishing scams.