The holiday season is right around the corner, and that means it’s time for festive decorations and lots of quality time with our friends and family. But while we’re decorating and trying to find the perfect gift, it’s important to remember that this time of year also brings an increased risk of scams. Scammers will be out in full force, looking to catch us off guard. From suspicious emails and fake charities to online shopping traps and identity theft, we must stay sharp and protect ourselves from these holiday scams.
In this article, I’m calling attention to some of the most common scams that tend to make an appearance during the holiday season, and I’ll provide a few tips on how to avoid them.
Be wary of unexpected emails and text messages: Scammers often use phishing emails and text messages to trick people into clicking on malicious links or downloading malware. Always be cautious of unsolicited emails or text messages, especially those that ask for personal and payment information.
Be careful with gift card purchases: Gift cards are a popular gift during the holidays, but they are also a common target for scammers because these scams are difficult to trace. Only purchase gift cards from reputable sources, and never give out our card number and PIN to anyone you don’t know.
Watch out for online shopping scams: With so many people doing their holiday shopping online, scammers may set up fake websites or online marketplaces to sell fake or non-existent products. Only shop reputable websites and read customers' reviews before making a purchase. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Protect your personal information: Scammers are always trying to steal personal information, such as social security numbers and credit card numbers. Never share your personal information with anyone you don’t know, and always use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts. If you realize that you may have shared your credit card or bank account information with a scammer, contact your bank or credit card immediately and ask for guidance on how to proceed.
Watch out for fake charities: Scammers like to take advantage of people’s generosity during the holiday season by setting up fake charities. Be sure to research any charity before donating, and only donate through reputable websites.
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it’s also a prime time for scammers to try to take advantage of our goodwill and generosity. By staying vigilant, being cautious with your personal information, and following the tips I’ve shared, you can protect yourself from falling victim. So go ahead and enjoy the festivities but remember to stay sharp and keep your guard up.