Stay Safe This Holiday Shopping Season

As the holiday season kicks into high gear, shoppers are eagerly searching for gifts and deals. Unfortunately, scammers are equally active, taking advantage of the increased online activity to prey on unsuspecting consumers. Here’s a guide to help you recognize and avoid financial scams so you can focus on enjoying the holiday season with peace of mind.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

• Phishing Emails and Texts

Scammers often pose as well-known retailers, banks, or even delivery services to trick you into clicking links that lead to fake websites. Once there, they may attempt to steal your login information or personal details. Be cautious of emails or texts that claim there’s an issue with your order or account, especially if they contain a sense of urgency.

• Fake E-commerce Sites and Deals

Deals that seem too good to be true often are. Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic reputable retailers, complete with a checkout process that collects your credit card information. To avoid this, verify the website’s URL and make sure it’s secure (look for “https” at the beginning of the web address). Stick to well-known retailers and avoid unfamiliar sites without researching them first.

• Gift Card Scams

Gift cards are popular holiday gifts, but they’re also a favorite tool for scammers. Some fraudsters request payments in the form of gift cards, or they may try to convince you that your account is in danger and needs to be “secured” with a gift card payment. Legitimate businesses will never request gift cards as payment.

• Charity Fraud

Many people choose to donate to charitable causes during the holidays. Scammers exploit this goodwill by setting up fake charities or soliciting donations on behalf of real organizations they don’t represent. Before donating, verify the charity’s credentials through trusted resources like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau.

Protecting Yourself from Scams

• Shop Securely Online: Always ensure you’re on a legitimate website by checking the URL. Avoid using public Wi-Fi when shopping, as it can be an easy target for cybercriminals. Consider enabling two-factor authentication for extra security on your accounts.
• Be Wary of Unsolicited Communications: Whether through email, phone, or text, if you receive an unexpected message regarding a purchase, prize, or account issue, verify its authenticity by contacting the company directly. Don’t click on links or provide personal information to unsolicited messages.
• Monitor Your Bank Accounts and Credit Reports: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unusual activity. During the holiday season, it’s a good idea to check your accounts more frequently. Reviewing your credit report can also help catch signs of identity theft early.
• Use Strong Passwords and Keep Software Updated: Secure your online accounts with strong, unique passwords and update your software regularly. Cybercriminals often exploit software vulnerabilities, so keeping devices and apps updated is a simple yet effective way to boost your security.

What to Do If You’re a Victim of a Scam

If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, act quickly. Contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately to report the fraud. You should also consider freezing your credit to prevent further unauthorized activity. Additionally, report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your country’s consumer protection agency.

Spread Awareness

Finally, educate friends and family about holiday scams, especially those who may be less tech-savvy or unfamiliar with online shopping. A quick conversation about scam awareness can go a long way in helping others stay protected.

The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration. By staying vigilant and taking these precautions, you can help ensure that scammers don’t spoil your festivities. Happy (and safe) shopping!