Christmas Scams

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and giving. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers and revelers. From fake charity appeals to online shopping frauds, these Christmas scams can put a damper on your festive spirit. Let’s unwrap some common Christmas scams and learn how to keep your Christmas merry and bright.

General Tips

• Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.
• Don’t rush into making decisions under pressure.
• Use secure, trusted payment methods.
• Keep your computer and mobile devices updated with the latest security software.

Fake Online Stores

How They Work

Scammers create fake online stores that look just like legitimate retailers. These websites often offer deals that are too good to be true, enticing shoppers with massive discounts on popular items. Once you make a purchase, you either receive counterfeit goods, inferior products, or nothing at all.

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify the URL- Ensure the website’s URL matches the official website of the retailer. Look for misspellings or unusual domain names.
• Don’t Click Links- Type retailer URLs directly into your browser instead of clicking links.
• Check for HTTPS- Legitimate online stores use HTTPS for secure transactions. Look for the padlock symbol in the address bar.
• Read Reviews- Look up reviews and ratings for the website. If it’s a scam, chances are others have reported it.
• Use Credit Cards- Credit cards offer better fraud protection compared to debit cards or wire transfers and monitor your credit card statements regularly. 
• Unique Passwords- Use unique, strong passwords for each online account. 

 Charity Scams

How They Work

During the holiday season, many people are in a giving mood, making it the perfect time for scammers to solicit fake charity donations. They might reach out via phone, email, or social media, using emotional appeals to tug at your heartstrings.

How to Protect Yourself

• Research the Charity-  Use websites like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to verify the legitimacy of the charity.
• Avoid Giving Cash- Be wary of charities that only accept cash or wire transfers. Instead, use checks or credit cards for a paper trail.
• Be Wary of High- Pressure Tactics–  Legitimate charities won’t pressure you to donate immediately.
• Watch for Red Flags- Be cautious if a charity refuses to provide detailed information about its mission and finances.

 Phishing Emails and Texts

How They Work

Scammers send emails or texts posing as well-known retailers, delivery companies, or even your bank. These messages often contain links to fake websites designed to steal your personal information or install malware on your device.

How to Protect Yourself

• Do Not Click on Links- Instead, go directly to the official website by typing the URL in your browser.
• Verify the Sender- Check the sender’s email address or phone number. If it looks suspicious or unfamiliar, do not engage.
• Use Antivirus Software- Keep your antivirus software updated to protect against malware.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication- This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.

Gift Card Scams

How They Work

Scammers often convince victims to pay for goods or services with gift cards. They might claim to be from a government agency, utility company, or even a tech support service, demanding payment to avoid severe consequences.

How to Protect Yourself

• Know the Warning Signs- No legitimate business or government agency will ask for payment via gift cards.
• Report Suspicious Requests- If you receive such a request, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local consumer protection agency.
• Educate Others- Make sure your friends and family, especially the elderly, are aware of this scam.

Be Smart with Gift Cards

• Buy gift cards directly from the issuing retailer or authorized sellers.
• Examine gift cards for signs of tampering before purchasing.
• Keep your receipt and the card’s ID number in case of issues.
• Never give gift card information over the phone. 
• Be wary of anyone asking for payment via gift cards.

Package Delivery Scams

 How They Work

With the increase in online shopping during the holiday season, scammers send fake delivery notifications. These notifications often contain links that lead to phishing websites or prompt you to download malware.

How to Protect Yourself

• Track Your Orders- Keep track of your orders and their expected delivery dates.
• Verify Delivery Notifications- Only trust notifications from the official delivery service apps or websites.
• Do Not Share Personal Information- Reputable delivery services will not ask for personal information via email or text.

What to Do If You’ve Experienced Christmas Scams

• Report the scam to your local authorities
• Contact your bank or credit card company immediately
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Alert friends and family to prevent further victimization

The holidays should be a time of joy, not worry. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to Christmas scams. Share this information with others to help spread awareness and keep the festive season safe for everyone. Happy holidays and stay scam-free!