Halloween Ad Campaign Tackles Online Scaries Creatively

South Africa (24 October 2025) – The digital landscape is increasingly haunted by threats targeting our wallets. Dubbed the “online scaries,” these modern menaces—from sophisticated phishing attempts to too-good-to-be-true investment schemes—flood our inboxes daily. Financial services provider Liberty has launched a timely campaign to confront these financial fears head-on, using the Halloween season to spotlight the dangers.

These online scaries no longer lurk in shadows but appear as legitimate-looking emails. They mimic security alerts from your bank or promise unbelievable returns. A single click on a malicious link can lead to compromised accounts and drained finances.

Phishing Schemes Target South Africans

Cybercriminals are refining their tactics, often using seasonal events like holidays to launch widespread attacks. The outcome is severe: stolen personal data, emptied bank accounts, and significant financial disruption. Liberty’s new initiative aims to build public awareness before the festive “silly season” begins.

The campaign uses Halloween-themed imagery from classic horror films to illustrate common scam tactics. The core message is vigilance. The company urges South Africans to pause and scrutinize any suspicious communication.

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

Protect Yourself from the Online Scaries

Liberty’s advice is straightforward. Slowing down and recognizing red flags is your first line of defense. Key protective steps include:

Always verify the sender’s email address for subtle spelling errors.
Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unverified sources.
Be skeptical of messages creating a false sense of urgency.
Question any “limited-time offer” that pressures immediate action.
Contact companies directly using official websites or phone numbers if unsure.
Awareness is the most powerful tool against these online scaries. If an offer seems unrealistic, it almost always is. Liberty’s goal is to transform financial fear into financial confidence, empowering people to take preventive action.

This season, don’t let financial nightmares become a reality. Use this reminder to assess your financial health, review your goals, and consider speaking with a financial adviser. Being proactive is the best way to ensure your money stays safe from the ever-present online scaries.

Sources: Supplied