Don’t Let Scams Steal Your Cheer: Cybersecurity Experts Warn of Massive Festive Season Fraud Surge
Bangalore December 16, 2025. As India steps into the festive season filled with joy, celebrations, and a flurry of online shopping, cybersecurity experts are urging people to pause and stay alert. The holidays, they say, have quietly given cybercriminals the perfect opportunity to strike. With digital payments, irresistible discounts, and the overall festive excitement, many shoppers are unknowingly lowering their guard—making it easier for scammers to slip through.
Uma Pendyala, Head Business Operations, SecurEyes, a Cybersecurity consulting product and training company, explains that this time of year has unfortunately become a prime season for cyber fraud. Attackers take advantage of our excitement, the sudden rush of online purchases, and tempting payment offers to deceive people when they least expect it. In 2025 alone, Karnataka recorded a staggering loss of over ₹2,000 crores due to cyber fraud, underscoring the scale of the threat.
The Anatomy of Festive Scams
During the festive season, scammers know exactly how to take advantage of our excitement and rushed decisions. Their tricks look clean and convincing—festive colours, familiar brand logos, and tempting “only for today” deals that make people click before they realise something is off.
Common Festive Scams to Watch Out For
Phishing Links & Fake Vouchers:
Messages pop up on SMS, WhatsApp, or email promising unbelievable “New Year Mega Offers” or “Christmas Gift Card Wins.” They look harmless, but one click can lead you to fake websites designed to steal your personal details, banking information, or even your UPI PIN.
Fraudulent Shopping Portals:
Scammers set up entire fake online stores that look almost real, except for tiny spelling errors in the website link. They lure people with massive discounts on electronics, jewellery, and other expensive items. Once you pay, the website disappears—or worse, you receive a completely fake product.
Impersonation Scams:
Fraudsters often call or message pretending to be from your bank, a delivery company, or customer support. They create a sense of urgency by saying there’s a problem with your account or a package. In the rush to fix it, many people end up sharing their OTP or card details.
