Hey there! Did you know that cybercriminals love targeting major sporting events like the Olympics? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back with some top tips to keep you safe.
02 Feb 2026
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5 min. read
When it comes to the Olympics, cybercriminals have been trying to cash in on the action for years. From fake ticketing sites during the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics to state-aligned threat actors disrupting the Pyeongchang 2018 games, they’ve been causing trouble. As we gear up for Milano-Cortina 2026, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential threats and how to steer clear of them.
What You Need to Watch Out For
As a sports fan, be cautious of various threats before and during the Olympics, including:
Phishing Attempts
Watch out for unsolicited emails or messages pretending to be from official organizers, sponsors, or others. They might try to lure you into giving away personal or financial information or clicking on harmful links.
Fake Olympics Sites
Be wary of e-commerce sites selling fake tickets, travel packages, or accommodations. They’re out to scam you for your money and card details.
Free and Illegal Streaming Sites
While some sites offer free video content from the games, they could also be riddled with malware and malicious ads.
Fake Apps
Be cautious of mobile apps posing as official Olympics apps that may contain harmful malware.
SEO Poisoning
Scammers may use SEO techniques to push their malicious websites to the top of search results to steal your information.
Support Scams
Watch out for fraudsters posing as official support on social media to trick you into sharing personal or financial information.
Fake Employment Scams
Be alert for fake opportunities to work at the Olympics, as they may be designed to steal your information or money.
AI-Powered Scams
Fraudsters are increasingly using AI tools to create convincing scams, so be vigilant.
QR Code Phishing
Beware of QR codes at the event that may lead to phishing sites or malware downloads.
Public Wi-Fi
Avoid fake hotspots that aim to steal your information while you’re out and about.
How to Stay Safe
To stay secure online during the Winter Olympics:
- Only buy tickets from official sites like tickets.milanocortina2026.org.
- Stick to the official merchandise site, shop.olympics.com.
- Avoid pirated streaming services and only use official broadcaster sites like NBCUniversal, BBC, and Warner Bros Discovery.
- Avoid clicking on unsolicited messages or deals that seem too good to be true.
- Download the official Olympics app for event information.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi or use a VPN for protection.
- Install reputable anti-malware software on your device.
The Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina promises to be an exciting event, but stay vigilant against digital scams. Enjoy the games safely!
