As the holiday season approaches, Illinois shoppers are preparing for the usual surge in online purchases and virtual activity. State agencies are urging residents to be alert to the increased risk of cyber scams during this busy period. The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) have issued guidance to help residents stay safe.
The DoIT shared tips from the National Cyber Security Alliance to protect against online threats. “Cyber criminals rely on busy schedules and split-second decisions,” said Statewide Chief Information Security Officer Jason Bowen, urging residents to “Slow down before you click.” He emphasized verifying links in ads, account warnings, and shipping notifications before clicking, and only dealing with trusted retailers.
Shoppers are also advised to exercise caution on unfamiliar e-commerce platforms. “Prior to making a purchase, read reviews to hear what others say about the merchant. In addition, look for a physical location and any customer service information,” the guidelines state. Using credit cards over debit cards is recommended due to stronger protections against fraud.
Account security remains a top concern. Bowen stressed sharing only essential information during transactions and canceling purchases that request excessive data. Consumers are encouraged to routinely monitor financial and online activity to quickly identify unauthorized transactions.
“These proactive steps not only protect individuals but also strengthen the state’s overall cyber resilience,” said Beth Windisch, Deputy Director of Homeland Security at IEMA-OHS. Illinois residents can find more tips on staying cyber safe this holiday season through official state resources.