The First Week Back: Busy Inboxes and Digital Risks

Coming back after the New Year break can feel overwhelming. You open your laptop and suddenly it’s all there, emails to catch up on, systems asking you to log back in, notifications you don’t quite remember setting up.

When everything hits at once, it’s easy to move fast just to get moving again.

And that’s exactly what cyber criminals rely on.

This time of year, often sees an increase in social engineering attempts, emails and messages designed to look legitimate, urgent, and familiar. Recently, many Instagram users reported receiving emails asking them to reset their passwords, even though they hadn’t requested a reset.

According to a recently published report, Meta has denied any data breach, stating there is no evidence that Instagram’s systems were compromised. Instead, the emails are likely the result of unauthorised login attempts or automated requests, which can trigger genuine, looking security notifications and create confusion for users. (Source: Instagram denies breach after many receive emails asking to reset password)

While this doesn’t point to a confirmed breach, it highlights a broader issue. How easily security messages can blend into already busy inboxes, especially when people are returning from a break.

And it’s not just social media.

Attackers take advantage of moments when:

• Inboxes are overloaded with legitimate emails
• People are distracted and catching up
• Security alerts feel routine rather than suspicious
• Urgency encourages quick clicks instead of careful checks

What to keep in mind as you settle back in

• Treat unexpected security or login emails with caution
• Avoid clicking links when unsure, go directly to the platform instead
• Be wary of messages that create urgency or pressure
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever it’s available

Cyber security isn’t about panic, it’s about awareness. Periods of transition, like returning to work after a break, are when small habits matter most.

Starting the year well doesn’t mean doing everything at once. Sometimes, it simply means slowing down enough to notice what doesn’t belong.

Better awareness. Better habits. Better business.

---

Not sure where to start?

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Our team can help you review your setup and make sure your technology is working for you, not against you. Talk to us.