Home » Breaking News » Major cybersecurity threats for global travelers to the Paris Olympics include ticket fraud, vulnerabilities in restaurant ordering systems and lodging risks identified by Veriti
Sunday, July 21, 2024
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As travelers prepare for the Paris Olympics, Veriti has identified several significant cybersecurity threats to watch out for, including ticket fraud via Telegram channels and social media platforms, vulnerabilities in restaurant ordering systems, and security concerns for accommodations booked through platforms like Airbnb.
One of the main concerns cited by Veriti is the prevalence of ticket fraud. Scammers are taking advantage of the high demand for Olympic tickets by selling counterfeit tickets on Telegram channels and social media platforms. These counterfeit tickets pose a major risk for individuals looking for discounted prices from unofficial sources. To avoid falling victim to these scams, travelers are advised to only purchase tickets from official Olympic websites and always be cautious about sharing personal or financial information on unverified platforms.
Additionally, Veriti warns travelers about the cyber risks associated with restaurants’ unsecured ordering systems. Travelers should take several precautions to protect themselves. First, they should use credit cards that offer two-factor authentication (2FA), which provides an extra layer of security by requiring an authorization request via SMS or email for each transaction. This measure helps reduce the risk of credit card theft. Second, travelers should ensure that a restaurant’s website or app is secure by checking if the URL is HTTPS. It is also essential to double-check the order and bill total to detect any discrepancies that could be a sign of tampering. Finally, it is important to avoid public Wi-Fi networks for online transactions, as these networks are often less secure and more susceptible to cyber attacks.
When booking accommodations, especially on platforms like Airbnb, travelers should take several steps to stay safe. Veriti recommends checking the presence and placement of surveillance cameras and making sure they are only installed in public areas and not in private spaces. This step is essential to maintain privacy and security during your stay.
Travelers should also be aware of common signs of online ticket fraud that may occur with Ticketmaster. These scams generally fall into three categories: credit card and credential theft, pre-disclosure data misuse, and piggybacking fraud. Scammers often create fake websites or send phishing emails posing as legitimate ticket sellers to obtain credit card details or steal online credentials. Always check the URL and look for secure site indicators such as HTTPS and a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages requesting additional personal information as these may be part of a further attack.
As the Paris Olympics approach, the cybersecurity landscape is changing with the emergence of new threats. One particularly worrying trend is the rise of “media influence” attacks. These attacks involve random protesters focusing on different topics each day, creating confusion and uncertainty. Nation-states and other malicious actors could abuse social media and other platforms to influence public opinion, disrupt the Olympics, and incite spectators.
Travelers attending the Paris Olympics should take several precautions to protect their personal information and devices. It is paramount that tickets are purchased from official sources, and third-party sellers and unofficial transactions should be avoided to prevent fraud. Protecting your devices with strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts will provide an extra layer of security. Keeping your software up to date will ensure protection against known vulnerabilities. Avoiding public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions and using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when necessary will help protect against cyber threats. Limiting the sharing of personal information online and using secure payment methods are also important steps to strengthen your cybersecurity.
In conclusion, by following these guidelines and staying informed about potential cybersecurity threats, travelers can better protect themselves and enjoy a safe and memorable experience at the Paris Olympics.
Tags: Airbnb security, cybersecurity threats, Oren Coren, Paris Olympics, public Wi-Fi risks, restaurant ordering systems, secure payment methods, ticket fraud, travel safety, two-factor authentication, Veriti
