Cybersecurity Feast: Serving Up Safe Tech Habits This Thanksgiving

As families gather around the table to give thanks, it’s also a perfect time to reflect on something we often take for granted: the safety of our digital lives. Just as Thanksgiving is about preparation—defrosting the turkey, baking the pies, setting the table—so too should your cybersecurity habits be ready for the season.

Here’s how to make your cybersecurity plate as full and secure as your Thanksgiving one:

1. Don’t Fall for Phishy Leftovers

Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals are the digital gravy boat of the season—but cybercriminals know it, too. This time of year, phishing emails pretending to be order confirmations, shipping notifications, or incredible sales are everywhere.

What to do:

• Pause before clicking on links or downloading attachments.
• Check the sender’s address carefully.
• If you’re unsure, go directly to the retailer’s official website rather than using a link.
• Report It. If you’re on your personal account, you can report it as phishing. If it’s your Montclair account, hit the PAB to let our team know!

2. Secure the Wi-Fi Before the Guests Arrive

Hosting the family feast? If guests are connecting to your home Wi-Fi, make sure it’s protected. An unsecured network is like leaving the front door open—easy access for more than just relatives.

What to do:

• Use a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi.
• Consider setting up a guest network to keep visitors away from your smart devices and personal data.
• Keep your router firmware updated.

3. Be Grateful, Not Forgetful—Update Your Devices

Your devices need a little holiday TLC, too. Just like you wouldn’t serve undercooked turkey, don’t go into the holidays with outdated software.

What to do:

• Install updates for your operating system, apps, and antivirus software.
• Enable automatic updates where possible.

4. Shop Smart, Not Sorry

Online shopping is a holiday tradition in itself, but it comes with risks. Fake websites and shady apps are just waiting to carve into your wallet.

What to do:

• Shop from trusted retailers.
• Look for HTTPS in the URL.
• Avoid deals that look too good to be true—they probably are.

5. Watch What You Share at the Table and Online

Oversharing on social media can lead to identity theft or let burglars know you’re out of town. Grandma might love your pumpkin pie post, but others might see more than just dessert.

What to do:

• Avoid posting travel plans or geo tagging your location.
• Don’t share personal info like your full address or phone number in public posts.
• Post it later! When you return home you can share all your festivities to your socials.

A Final Helping: Pass the Cybersecurity Around

Thanksgiving is about community and gratitude—so share what you know! Help family members secure their devices, show them how to spot phishing scams, or help them create strong passwords.

This season, let your cybersecurity habits be something you’re truly thankful for. Because nothing ruins a holiday like a compromised bank account or a hacked email. Stay safe, stay full, and enjoy a secure Thanksgiving!

“From our cybersecurity family to yours: may your turkey be juicy, your Wi-Fi be secure, and your inbox free from phishing.”

— Emily Harris
Chief Information Security Officer

Want to Know More?

Cyber Security News | 10 Popular Black Friday Scams – How to Detect the Red Flags and Protect your wallet and Data

National Cybersecurity Alliance | Safe Online Holiday Shopping

Coin Law | Financial Cybersecurity Statistics for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025: What the Numbers Reveal

Forbes | Google Issues Black Friday Warning—Do Not Shop On These Websites

Impact | Why Cybersecurity Is So Vital for Black Friday and Cyber Monday