Going to concerts across the summer is a popular pursuit for many. But is this activity digitally safe? UK festivals attract millions of music enthusiasts every single year, with Glastonbury alone hosting over 200,000 people in 2024.
As the summer months begin, those who prepare to enter these public spaces, unaware of the potential threats caused by cybercriminals.
The data firm SOAX has reported to Digital Journal about four common ways cybercriminals steal data at music festivals and how to avoid falling prey to them this year.
Be wary of public Wi-Fi
Online searches for ‘WiFi scam’ have risen by 93 percent over the last 12 months, according to Google Trends.
Stepan Solovev, CEO & Co-founder of SOAX, tells Digital Journal: “While attending a music festival, people might be tempted to join public Wi-Fi networks, but these can be insecure and leave users vulnerable to hackers.”
According to Norton, public networks are unencrypted and transmit data in plain text so criminals on the same network can intercept sensitive information, such as passwords, banking details, or personal data.
“Before joining any public Wi-Fi, people should confirm its legitimacy with venue staff and consider using a virtual private network (VPN),” Solovev adds. “If they need to access sensitive accounts while out, using mobile data might be a better option.”
Think twice when scanning QR codes
Criminals can easily create fake codes that redirect users to malicious websites designed to steal personal information. In the last 12 months, online searches for ‘fake QR code’ have risen by 47 percent, according to Google Trends.
“There are lots of ways you can be tricked into scanning counterfeit QR codes at festivals, such as QR codes disguised as payment methods on parking machines,” according to Solovev. “Food stalls and bars are also ideal locations for scammers because QR codes offer quick access to menus, event schedules, and more.”
Solovev clarifies: “To stay safe from these scams, you should always verify the authenticity of a QR code before scanning. You can do this by asking event staff or closely examining the code itself and avoiding those printed on flimsy materials.”
Avoid phishing scams offering fake gift cards
UK festivals host clothing, jewellery, and beauty stalls. Unfortunately, these stalls give cybercriminals the perfect opportunity to scam customers by offering fake gift cards.
“Criminals may send phishing emails containing fraudulent gift cards before the festival. These virtual gift cards will contain codes that may claim to offer discounts, but more often than not, they will lead to harmful websites,” Solovev comments.
“People can avoid being scammed by carefully reviewing all emails. Before opening any emails, ensure the email address is from a reputable seller,” advises Solovev. “A great way to spot cybercriminals is to check for any spelling mistakes or emails that include personal names. If people are still unsure, they should contact the store directly.”
Create safe words with friends and family
UK festivals offer a unique escape for music enthusiasts. While fun, it separates people from their friends and family members, leaving them vulnerable to impersonation scams.
Impersonation scams involve a criminal posing as a friend or family member in distress to request money, often through WhatsApp, text messages, or social media.
Criminals will often use artificial intelligence to conduct this scam, such as mimicking the voice of a loved one on a phone call. With searches for ‘AI scams’ rising by 72 percent, AI-driven fraud is becoming a growing concern for people.
“To prevent this, you can create a code word with friends and family,” Solovev recommends. “Then, if someone receives a suspicious message or phone call, it will be easier to confirm the sender’s identity and prevent fraud at any time”
