KnowBe4, the provider of the world’s largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, has released findings on the increased rate of scams targeting people this summer in the UK. It warns people looking to travel abroad or attend music festivals, The Euros, Wimbledon, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour or the Olympics to be vigilant against scammers exploiting these events for fraudulent purposes. The study found that one in ten who have booked or plan to book these events have been targeted by a scam – resulting in many consumers losing money, losing access to their accounts or having data stolen.
Other key findings reveal the extent of the threat faced by British people this summer:
- More than half (54%) of the UK population has made summer plans including travelling abroad, attending festivals, sporting events and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour
- Over one in ten (11%) of individuals planning these activities have been targeted by scams and a further 8% are unsure if they have been targeted
- 40% of those targeted reported the scam to authorities
- 36% of those targeted lost money to the scam
- 31% lost access to their online accounts
- 30% had data stolen
The study also delves into how Brits respond to data breach notifications when they are impacted by a data leak. Responses varied from reporting the problem to completely ignoring the potential issue.
“These findings highlight the growing issues faced by Brits looking to travel abroad and attend events this summer as fraudsters look to capitalise on this busy period,” said Javvad Malik, lead security advocate at KnowBe4. “Staying vigilant and informed about these risks can help consumers reduce the risk of falling victim to such attacks and losing money or having their data stolen. In addition, a culture of awareness is imperative to mitigate the human risk that is rife during such a popular time to travel and attend events.”
To download a copy of KnowBe4’s report on the scams Brits face from summer scammers, click here.
