The holiday season is a special time, full of cheer, delicious treats, and the joy of connecting with loved ones. However, scammers also see it as the prime time to strike, targeting the unsuspecting. Don’t let them dim your festive spirit. Here’s how to stay safe:
Common Scams:
Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals: Fake websites promise luxury goods at deep discounts. Look for poor design, grammatical errors, and misspelled URLs. Always shop with trusted retailers.
Fake Charities: Scammers exploit goodwill with emotional appeals. Verify charities through sites like Charity Navigator. Avoid donating via unsolicited messages or calls.
Gift Card Scams: Fraudsters pose as loved ones or employers, requesting gift card numbers for urgent “payments.” Legitimate companies won’t ask for gift cards.
Shipping Scams: Fake “delivery issue” messages lure you into clicking malicious links or sharing personal info. Confirm tracking directly with shipping companies.
Travel Scams: Suspicious and unbelievable vacation deals often require upfront payments via wire transfer or prepaid cards. Research companies thoroughly and use secure payment methods.
Safety Tips:
Shop on secure sites (look for “https” in the web address). Pay with credit instead of debit, for extra fraud protection.
Keep devices updated and use antivirus software.
Share these tips with loved ones, especially teens and seniors.
Avoid urgent offers. Scammers rely on urgency to lure in victims. Pause and verify before acting.
If you suspect a scam, STOP engaging immediately—do not click on links, don't respond to suspicious messages, or share any form of personal information. Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and notify your credit union or bank if you’ve shared financial details to help secure your accounts.
Finally, share your experience with friends, family, or online communities to raise awareness and help others avoid falling victim.
With vigilance, you can enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season. Happy holidays!
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