Don’t Fall For The Most Common Holiday Scams This Season

The holiday season is full of joy and excitement, but it also brings opportunities for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting people. 

Knowing about the most common scams can help you stay safe and enjoy the holidays without falling for fraud. Here are some of the top holiday scams and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Fake Online Shopping Websites:

Many scammers create fake websites that look like real online stores. They often advertise great deals on popular gifts, but when you order, you either receive nothing or a low-quality product. 

To avoid this scam, always check if the website has “https” in the URL, indicating it’s secure. Look for reviews from other shoppers, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true. 

Stick to trusted retailers and check for any red flags like misspelled words or poor website design.

2. Phishing Emails and Texts:

Phishing scams involve emails or texts that look like they come from a legitimate company, asking for personal information like passwords or credit card numbers. 

During the holidays, scammers often pretend to be from stores offering big discounts or from delivery services with fake tracking links. 

If you receive an unexpected message, never click on links or download attachments. Always verify the sender by checking their official website or contacting customer service.

3. Charity Scams:

Scammers know that many people like to give to charity during the holidays. They might send fake donation requests, hoping to steal your money. Before donating, do some research to make sure the charity is legitimate. 

Websites like Charity Navigator or GuideStar can help you find trusted organizations. Be cautious of unsolicited donation requests, and don’t give money over the phone unless you are sure the charity is real.

4. Fake Holiday Travel Deals:

Travel scams are common during the holiday season. Scammers may offer incredibly cheap vacation packages or flights that sound too good to pass up. Once you provide payment details, you may find that the deal was fake. 

To avoid these scams, book travel only through reputable websites or travel agents. Double check the prices and compare with other sources to make sure the deal is real. Be careful of unsolicited travel offers from unfamiliar sources.

5. Package Delivery Scams:

Scammers often pretend to be delivery services like UPS or FedEx. They send fake messages saying that a package is waiting for you, and when you click on the link, they ask for payment or personal details. 

To avoid this scam, always track your packages using the official website of the delivery service. If you receive an email or text about a delivery you weren’t expecting, don’t click any links. Contact the company directly for verification.

6. Fake Gift Cards:

Gift cards are popular during the holidays, but they’re also a common target for scammers. They might ask you to buy gift cards and send them the numbers in exchange for a prize or service. 

Real companies will never ask for payment via gift cards. If you are asked to buy gift cards over the phone or email, it’s likely a scam. Report the situation to the store or the authorities.

Staying Safe During the Holidays:

While scams are common during the holiday season, knowing how to spot them can help you avoid falling victim. 

Always be cautious when shopping online, donating to charities, or receiving unsolicited messages. 

By taking these simple steps, you can protect yourself and have a safe, enjoyable holiday season.