Holiday Scams to Avoid This Season
November Scam of the Month
During this time of year, scammers ramp up their efforts to take advantage of busy shoppers, givers, and travelers. This month, we’re shining a light on four of the most common scam types to watch for and what you can do to stay protected.
Fake Online Stores
Fraudsters create visually appealing websites or social media ads offering limited time deals or highly discounted merchandise. You may pay and never receive your item or get a knock off. This scam surfaces regularly around holiday seasons as it preys on urgency and the excitement of getting a “great deal.”
Stay Protected: Before purchasing from a new online store, check reviews, verify that the website uses a secure domain (look for “https://”), and avoid paying with untraceable methods (gift cards, wire transfers, crypto). For added protection, use a credit card at checkout.
Fraudulent Delivery Notifications
With so many packages arriving this time of year, it’s easy to get tricked by a fake “delivery notification” text or email. The message may claim a package is stuck in customs or needs a fee paid to complete delivery but the link leads to malware or asks for your personal information.
Stay Protected: Instead of clicking the link, go directly to the carrier’s official website by typing the address yourself or call their verified number to check. Do not enter personal information via a link you weren’t expecting.
Gift Card Scams
Gift cards may be convenient, but that also makes them a prime target for scammers. Fraudsters may impersonate coworkers, supervisors, or family members, asking you to purchase gift cards and send them the codes. In other cases, they might send you an unsolicited 'gift card' and then request that you activate it or share the code.
Stay Protected: Never buy gift cards because someone asked you via email or text out of the blue. If you receive a surprise gift card request, verify directly with the person by phone, not by replying to the email or text.
Charity Scams
The season of giving also means that fraudsters may pretend to represent a charity, ask for donations via untraceable methods or set up fake donation sites. They capitalize on your generosity and the emotional appeal of the holidays.
Stay Protected: Before donating, research the charity by using the Better Business Bureau’s Charity Search Tool or Charity Navigator. Donate via the charity’s official website or by credit card. Be cautious if someone pressures you to donate immediately or asks for payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe:
Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi‑factor authentication where available.
Be skeptical of unsolicited links or messages from unknown senders.
If a deal looks too good to be true, pause and verify it’s legit.
When donating, take a moment, verify, then donate.
Review your statements frequently and report anything unusual immediately.
Scammers rely on distractions, busy schedules, and the urgency of the holiday season. Staying aware gives you the upper hand.
Where To Report?
File a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) if the fraud involves internet transactions. Closely monitor your bank and credit card statements as well as your credit report. If you shared sensitive information like your Social Security number, online banking login, etc., consider placing a fraud alert or freeze on your credit. If you’ve suffered a financial loss, contact your local law enforcement agency.