The holidays are meant to be a joyful time of year. However, it can also be a prime time for scammers looking to take advantage of you. Fraudsters exploit your busy schedule, generosity, shopping habits and make you their next victim.
Even the smallest amount of caution can go a long way to keep your personal information and hard-earned money safe.
Here are some common scams you could encounter during this time of year.
Phishing emails and text
With online shopping becoming the new normal, many of us will receive updates on our orders and deliveries via email or text message. Scammers know most of your inbox is full of these messages and will send phishing emails or texts with fake information to try and trick you.
Avoid these scams by looking closely at a notification for misspellings or incorrect business information in the communication. If you’re concerned about the validity of the message, directly reach out to the business to confirm if the message is valid.
Package theft
Around this time of year, we expect to see an increase in delivery trucks everywhere, making sure the goods ordered make it to their intended recipients. Having items sent directly to your home is convenient, especially with helpful tracking notification updates and home security cameras; however, porch pirates are on the lookout to take your order from your doorstep.
You may want to consider a few different delivery options to protect your orders. Many stores will offer free in-store pickup. This option will not only keep your item safe, but it can save you money on shipping and handling too. If you made a high-end purchase, you may want to arrange for a delivery that requires your signature upon receipt.
Some other helpful delivery options are Amazon Lockers. These lockers offer a secure location where your package can be delivered instead of your home. Best of all, there is no fee for using this service.
Bogus sites
Any savvy shopper knows that it’s best to shop around to find the best offer. On your quest to get the best deal on your family’s wish list, you may stumble upon a fake website created by a criminal. Don’t believe any ads or websites that are offering deals are too good to be true.
Copycat retail websites are set up to seem real, but once you place an order, you’ll never receive the item that you ordered. Even worse, your accounts could be wiped and your information compromised.
Only shop on reputable sites by checking the website address/URL before placing an order. Look for an “s” after the “http” in the web address to verify a site’s security.
Fraudulent Charities
Shopping isn’t the only way you could encounter a fraudster. Scam artists also take advantage of your goodwill during the holidays.
Criminals will prey on this active time for charitable giving by impersonating nonprofits and charities. Donation solicitations may come from social media posts, emails, or postcards leading you to a fake website that will capture your personal information and take your money.
Before donating, verify the authenticity of any charity you’d like to make a contribution to by checking it out on a website like CharityNavigator.org or GuideStar.org
Remember that legitimate nonprofit organizations will not ask for gift cards as donation payments or request that the donation be made via money transfers.
Other Ways to Stay Safe Online
- Pay with a credit card while shopping
- Don’t open email attachments that you aren’t expecting
- Check your account for suspicious activity regularly
- Don’t open, reply to, or forward suspicious emails
- Never give out personal or financial information
- Set up account alerts and digital wallets for secure shopping
Separating you from your money is at the top of a scammer’s wish list. Follow our advice to safely enjoy the season. Find more tips for protecting yourself, here.
