Don’t Let Scammers Steal Your Holiday Cheer
The holidays are a time for giving, celebrating, and finding that perfect deal — but they’re also prime season for scammers. With so much online shopping, digital communication, and generosity in the air, criminals see endless opportunities to take advantage of distracted shoppers and kind hearts.
Here are four scams making the rounds — and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
1. Social Media “Deals” That Are Too Good to Be True
You’re scrolling through Facebook or Instagram and see an ad for the must-have gift of the season — at half the price! The website looks real, the photos are convincing, and the reviews seem glowing. But once you place the order… nothing ever arrives.
Scammers create fake online stores or social media ads that disappear as soon as they collect enough money or personal data.
- Be wary of deep discounts from unfamiliar retailers.
- Check the website address — misspellings or extra words like “.shop” or “.co” can be a red flag.
- Research the company name along with “scam” or “reviews.”
2. Undeliverable Package or Shipping Scams
“Your package couldn’t be delivered.” Sound familiar? During the busy shipping season, scammers send fake emails or texts that appear to come from USPS, UPS, or FedEx, claiming there’s a problem with delivery. Clicking the link takes you to a fake site that steals your login or payment information.
- Never click links in unexpected delivery notifications or text messages.
- Go directly to the shipper’s official website or app to check your tracking number.
- Be cautious of messages that demand immediate action or payment to release a package.
3. Gift Card Scams
Gift cards make great presents — and scammers know it. A common trick involves a caller or emailer posing as a company, government official, or even a family member in distress, asking you to buy gift cards and share the numbers or photos on the back. Once you do, your money is gone.
- No legitimate business or government agency will ever demand payment by gift card.
- Avoid posting gift card barcodes or numbers online.
- If you suspect a scam, contact the retailer immediately — they may be able to freeze the card before it’s redeemed.
4. Charitable Giving Scams
The season of giving brings out the best in most people — but unfortunately, it also attracts scammers pretending to represent charities or disaster relief efforts. They may use fake websites, social media campaigns, or phone calls to tug at your heartstrings and your wallet.
Fraudsters create convincing charity names and websites that mimic legitimate organizations. They rely on emotional appeals and urgency — especially during the holidays — to push you to “donate now.”
- Verify before you give. Check charities at CharityNavigator.org, Give.org, or the IRS’s Tax Exempt Organization Search tool.
- Be cautious of crowdfunding pages unless you personally know the organizer.
- Never donate via gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency — legitimate charities don’t ask for those payment types.
- If you’re contacted by phone or email, don’t click links or give payment information. Go directly to the charity’s official website.
🎁 Final Tip: Slow Down and Verify
Scammers count on the holiday rush to cloud your judgment. Take a moment before clicking, buying, or giving. A quick pause to double-check can save you from a costly mistake — and keep your holiday season merry and bright.
Stay smart, stay safe, and enjoy a scam-free season!
If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, contact your bank right away — we’re here to help.