Originally Posted On: https://www.tfnbtx.com/scams-during-the-holidays-what-to-watch-out-for/

Scams During the Holidays: What to Watch Out For

It’s the time of year again that has us all humming Christmas carols, shopping for loved ones, and baking goodies to our hearts’ content. Unfortunately, cybercrime spikes each year right about the time we’re breaking out the egg nog. While holiday prepping should feel like a joyous occasion, 80% of consumers have experienced or been targeted by some sort of scam or fraud during the season according to a recent AARP survey. This alarming statistic underscores the need for vigilance as we celebrate joy and connection with family and friends. At TFNB Your Bank for Life, the privacy and security of our customers is our top priority. We want to help you protect yourself from scams and attacks so that you can focus on having the merriest holiday season possible.

Five Common Holiday Scams

1. Phishing Emails

During the holiday rush, your inbox may become flooded with emails that appear to be from reputable retailers, shipping companies, or even your credit card company. These phishing emails often contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal your personal information or infect your device with malware. One of the most common phishing tactics is the fake receipt email. (See below for an example). Scammers send what looks like a legitimate receipt from a well-known retailer — like Amazon — claiming you’ve made a purchase. Their goal? To get you to click a link to “review your purchase” or “resolve an issue.”

Remember: Always verify unexpected emails by logging directly into your account instead of clicking on links. If the email seems suspicious, delete it or report it as phishing. Stay vigilant to keep your personal information safe!

2. Fake Charity Scams

The season of giving makes individuals more susceptible to charity scams. Fraudsters often set up fake charities to solicit donations, especially around the holidays. It’s essential to research any organization before contributing. Before you give, research the charity on trusted websites like Charity Navigator or GuideStar. You could also give to one of our trusted local nonprofits, including our Charity Champions, which we wrote about in our earlier blog.

3. Gift Card Scams

Gift cards make fantastic holiday gifts but are also a favorite tool for scammers. Fraudsters often ask for payment through gift cards, claiming it’s for unpaid utility bills or settling fake debts. They may even impersonate someone you know to make their request seem legitimate.

Here’s the rule of thumb: If someone asks for payment in gift cards, it’s a scam. No reputable business or government agency will ever ask you to pay this way. Stay cautious and protect your finances by steering clear of these tactics.

4. Online Shopping Scams

With the rise of online shopping, scammers have developed increasingly sophisticated tactics. Fake online stores often lure customers with unbelievable deals on popular items. After placing an order, victims may find that the goods never arrive, or they receive subpar products. To avoid falling for these scams, always check the website URL for misspellings and look for secure checkouts when finalizing your purchase.

5. Social Media Scams

Social media platforms can be breeding grounds for scams. If a friend in your network has been hacked, malicious actors can use this relationship to pretend there is an emergency and contact you for immediate help. Scammers will often create fake profiles to trick users into sharing personal information or sending money. Be cautious of unsolicited friend requests and messages, especially if they ask for financial assistance or personal details. Want to learn more about scams on the rise? Visit the National Cyber Security Authority for up-to-date information and tips to protect yourself on social media this holiday season.

Other Tips to Protect Yourself From Holiday Scams

Stay Skeptical

Adopt a healthy level of skepticism, especially regarding unsolicited emails, phone calls, and messages. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Verify any offers or requests before taking action.

Verify Information

Always double-check any information that arrives with urgency or seems suspicious. Use official websites or contact the organization directly if you receive unexpected requests. This simple step can save you from falling victim to a scam.

Use Strong Passwords

Creating strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts is a fundamental way to safeguard your information. Avoid using easily guessed passwords, and consider using a password manager to keep track of all your passwords securely.

Be Cautious with Personal Information

In the age of information, sharing personal details can be dangerous. Avoid disclosing sensitive information to strangers or unknown organizations, even if they seem legitimate. Be mindful of the information you share on social media, as scammers often use this data to target individuals.

Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks

While it may be tempting to shop online using public Wi-Fi, doing so can expose you to significant risks. Public networks are often less secure, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data. Instead, use a secure, private network for sensitive transactions.

Keep Your Software Updated

Regularly updating your devices and software can protect against potential vulnerabilities. Ensure that you have the latest security patches installed, as these updates often address known issues that could be exploited by scammers.

Enjoy a Safe Holiday Season

Protect yourself from common holiday scams. Stay informed, take precautions, and report any suspicious activity to local authorities or the FTC. By doing so, you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.