Digital greeting cards, or eCards, are a fun way to send good wishes during holidays and birthdays. But not all eCards are as cheerful as they seem. Cybercriminals often use fake eCard links to trick people into downloading harmful software (malware) or giving away personal information.
These scam eCards usually arrive in your email inbox looking like a message from a friend or family member. They might say something like “You’ve received a card!” or “A loved one sent you a holiday greeting.” Sometimes, the email includes a link that asks you to “click here to view the card.” That’s where the danger lies.
Once clicked, the link may lead you to a website that tries to install malware on your device, or it might request personal information under the guise of confirming your identity. These scams can compromise your computer, steal your login details, or worse.
To protect yourself, always verify the sender. If the email address looks suspicious or doesn’t match the name of the person who supposedly sent the card, don’t click it. Instead, contact that person directly to ask if they really sent it. Also, avoid opening eCards from unfamiliar websites or companies.
Keep your antivirus software updated, and if something feels off, it’s better to delete the message than risk clicking a bad link. A little caution goes a long way in keeping your digital life safe and cheerful.
