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5 Scams to Avoid this Holiday Season

The holidays should be filled with joy, not stress. But as shopping, travel, and digital activity increase, so do the opportunities for scammers to take advantage of the busy season. Fraudsters know people are distracted, rushed, and eager to snag great deals, which makes this time of year one of their favorites. To help you stay protected and enjoy a worry-free December, here are some of the most common holiday scams to watch for and a few simple tips to keep your information safe.
  1. Holiday Shopping Scams
Scammers often create “too-good-to-be-true” deals or fake online shops during the holiday rush. If a website is brand new, offers unusually deep discounts, or asks for odd payment methods, take a moment to double-check before buying.
  1. Delivery & Shipping Text Scams
With so many packages moving around, scammers send texts claiming a delivery problem or fee is due. These messages often include a link to a fake tracking page designed to steal personal or payment information. When in doubt, visit the carrier’s official website directly.
  1. Charity & Donation Scams
The season of giving brings out generosity, and unfortunately, impostors trying to exploit it. Before donating, especially through social media or email links, confirm the organization is legitimate and registered.
  1. Account & Password Scams
Cybercriminals may send emails or texts pretending to be your bank, a retailer, or an online service, urging you to “verify” your account or reset your password. These messages can look authentic. Always log in through official websites or apps rather than clicking links.
  1. Gift Card & Unusual Payment Requests
If a seller or person asks you to pay with a gift card, prepaid card, or instant transfer, it’s a major red flag. Legitimate businesses don’t request payment this way.

Helpful Tips for a Safe December
While scammers ramp up their tactics this time of year, a little extra caution can make a big difference. Here are some easy, practical ways to safeguard your accounts and avoid falling for common holiday scams:
  • Shop with trusted retailers or verified sellers.
  • Watch for misspelled website addresses or unusual payment requests.
  • Avoid clicking links in unexpected texts or emails.
  • Use strong, unique passwords and turn on multi-factor authentication.
  • Trust your instincts, if something feels off, pause and verify.

We know the holiday season can be busy and full of distractions. Our goal is to help you stay protected so you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying time with friends and family. If you ever have questions about a purchase, message, or transaction that doesn’t seem right, please reach out to us. We’re always here to help keep your financial season merry, bright, and secure.

Want to learn more about Fraud and Security, or submit a fraud report? Visit our webpage.
 
December 8, 2025