SK Shieldus Releases Online and Offline Security Guidelines Ahead of Chuseok Holiday

Record-Long Golden Holiday Brings Higher Crime Risks
Spread of Cyber Threats Including Ransomware

SK Shieldus announced its "Online and Offline Security Guidelines for a Safe Chuseok Holiday" on September 29, ahead of the Chuseok holiday. This year's Chuseok holiday is extended due to National Foundation Day and Hangeul Day, resulting in seven official holidays from October 3 to 9. By taking just one additional day off on October 10, people can enjoy a "golden holiday" of up to 12 days.

During the holiday period, the risk of both online and offline crimes rises compared to usual. SK Shieldus explained that it has analyzed security threat trends for the Chuseok holiday and prepared security guidelines to help people stay protected.

According to an analysis of 2024 control center data by ADT Caps, SK Shieldus's physical security brand, 43.9% of incident responses occurred during the early morning and late-night hours. This was followed by 25.5% in the evening and night, 17.9% in the morning, and 12.7% in the afternoon. Notably, the average daily number of incidents during last year's Chuseok holiday increased by 20.25% compared to the annual average, highlighting the need for extra vigilance against security lapses during the holiday.

Cybersecurity threats, including ransomware, are also steadily increasing. According to KARA (Korea Ransomware Response Association), a private ransomware response council, ransomware damage in the first half of this year rose by 67% compared to the same period last year. With damages expected to increase further in the second half, preparations against cyberattacks are essential during this extended Chuseok holiday.

Surge in Package Theft and Break-ins During the Holiday: Check Door Locks and Home CCTV

First, ADT Caps, SK Shieldus's physical security brand, recommended offline security guidelines, noting that the number of households leaving their homes unattended for extended periods during Chuseok is increasing, which in turn leads to a rise in targeted crimes.

If you plan to be away from home for an extended period or to visit your hometown, it is important to check possible entry routes around your house in advance. To prevent crimes such as package theft or burglary, coordinate the delivery schedule and pick-up location of packages and subscription goods ahead of time so that items do not pile up in front of your door. It is also advisable to store expensive valuables separately in a safe or other secure location. To prevent potential fires, make sure to turn off electronic devices and shut off the gas supply before leaving.

If you have CCTV installed at home, check before the holiday to ensure it is functioning properly and that real-time monitoring and recording features are working. Additionally, changing your door lock password and using double-locking devices can help establish thorough door security habits and prevent unauthorized entry in advance.

Increase in Online Attacks Such as Ransomware: Practice Everyday Cybersecurity Habits

SK Shieldus also presented practical security guidelines to prepare for online threats that may occur during the holiday. As phishing attacks impersonating holiday greetings or gift delivery notifications with malicious links are rapidly increasing, it is crucial to never click on links in text messages or emails from unknown sources and to immediately block them as a precaution.

To secure your accounts, regularly change your passwords and set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) to create an additional layer of defense. Furthermore, using genuine operating systems and software, and keeping your antivirus programs up to date, are basic rules to prevent infections from ransomware and malware.

Since the damage from hacking or phishing grows exponentially the longer the initial response is delayed, it is more important than ever to practice and check your security habits in everyday life.

A representative from SK Shieldus stated, "During the holiday season, all types of crimes increase both online and offline, so it is more important than ever to review and prepare your security checklist in advance," adding, "As a leading security company in Korea, we will do our utmost to ensure our customers can enjoy a safe and secure holiday."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.