Holiday Scams To Know
1. Online Shopping Scams
With the convenience of online shopping comes the risk of fake websites and too-good-to-be-true deals. Scammers often create counterfeit e-commerce sites that mimic legitimate retailers, offering deep discounts on high-demand items. Once you make a purchase, the item either never arrives or is a cheap knockoff.
How to Avoid It:
- Stick to trusted websites and verify URLs. Scammers often use slight misspellings to mimic legitimate sites (e.g., amazzon.com).
- Check for HTTPS in the website address to ensure it’s secure.
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true—they usually are.
2. Non-Delivery Scams
You spot the perfect gift online, pay for it, and wait for it to arrive—only for the package to never show up. Fraudsters exploit online marketplaces and social media platforms to list items they don’t intend to deliver.
How to Avoid It:
- Use secure payment methods like credit cards or PayPal, which offer fraud protection.
- Avoid wire transfers or prepaid gift cards, as these are harder to trace.
- Read reviews and check seller ratings before making a purchase.
3. Gift Card Scams
Scammers love gift cards because they’re essentially untraceable. Common scams involve fake calls or emails demanding payment via gift cards or tampering with gift cards in stores by scratching off the codes before they’re purchased.
How to Avoid It:
- Only purchase gift cards from reputable retailers.
- Inspect the card for signs of tampering before buying.
- Never provide gift card information to someone claiming it’s needed for payment.
4. Charity Scams
The holidays inspire many to donate to charities, but not all causes are legitimate. Scammers create fake charities or impersonate real ones to solicit donations.
How to Avoid It:
- Research charities before donating. Websites like Charity Navigator or GuideStar can help.
- Be cautious of urgent appeals, especially via unsolicited calls or emails.
- Donate directly through the charity’s official website.
5. Delivery and Package Scams
With more packages arriving at doorsteps during the holidays, scammers use fake delivery notices to steal personal information or demand fees for “undeliverable” items.
How to Avoid It:
- Verify any delivery notifications directly with the shipping company.
- Be skeptical of texts or emails asking for payment to release a package.
General Tips to Stay Safe
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges.
- Enable Alerts: Use two-factor authentication and set up alerts for online accounts and banking apps.
- Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with current scams. Websites like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Better Business Bureau (BBB) provide up-to-date information.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t rush into transactions without verifying details.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a holiday scam, take immediate action:
- Report the Incident: File a complaint with the FTC, your state’s attorney general, or the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
- Notify Your Bank: Dispute unauthorized charges and freeze your accounts if necessary.
- Monitor Your Credit: Check your credit report for signs of fraud and consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze.
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, not stress. By staying vigilant and informed, you can avoid falling victim to holiday scams and focus on the season’s true spirit: giving and gratitude.
