Cyber Monday: it's the most wonderful time of year for cyber-attackers

Holiday shopping triggers spike in cybercrime, experts say, so ignore dodgy-looking emails and social media posts and verify orders on retailers' websites

This weekend kicks off the busiest shopping season in many parts of the world - and, starting Cyber Monday, the most popular season for cyber-attacks.

Malicious attacks on shoppers increased 40% on Cyber Monday in 2013 and 2014, according to EnigmaSoftware.com, an anti-malware and spyware company, compared to the average number of attacks on days during the month prior. Other cybersecurity software providers have identified the December holiday shopping season as the most dangerous time of year to make online purchases.