While we’re busy hanging the lights and wrapping the presents, scammers are working overtime to con us this holiday season. They know we’re busy, looking to save money and expecting lots of package deliveries, so they’re ready to pounce and empty our wallets before we know what happened.
According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center’s 2024 report, Americans lost over $785-million to non-payment and non-delivery scams last year and credit card fraud cost us another $199-million. Think you’re far too savvy to become a victim? Make sure you know how to spot these five holiday scams we keep falling for.
- Fake phishing shipping notifications - Con artists know we’re waiting on holiday deliveries and they’re playing into it with all the fake texts and emails pretending to be USPS, FedEx, or Amazon with a “your package is delayed” message. They claim you just need to click a link to fix it, but if you’re in doubt about one of those notifications, trust your instinct, don’t click the link and go straight to the retailer or shipper to confirm.
- Too-good-to-be-true deals on social media - The ads look slick and promise massive discounts, but you won’t end up with that designer bag for 80% off, you’ll get a cheap knockoff or nothing at all. The FBI warns to check every URL to make sure it’s legit and secure, do your homework on new sellers, and remember, “https” is your friend.
- Social media gift exchanges that give nothing back - Sure, those gift swaps like “Secret Sister” that promise presents from a stranger for participating sound fun, but often leave people empty-handed. Even worse? They can collect your personal info and sometimes money, too, so you’re better off leaving those messages unread.
- Imposter urgency scams - “I need this done ASAP” cons can be disguised as messages from a “boss” or even a bank official claiming to have some “emergency.” But if they’re rushing you or insisting on a payment with gift cards, wire transfers or crypto, that’s a huge red flag.
- Holiday travel scams - Beware of ads promising tropical getaways at a steep discount or airfare so cheap it’s practically free. Scammers are cashing in on our holiday wanderlust using fake airline sites, bogus hotel bookings and rental platforms that don’t deliver what they promise. So do your research, stick to trusted sites and when in doubt, call the company to confirm.
Source: NY Post