The holiday season is upon us! The weather outside might be frightful, and the halls are decked with cheer, but it’s also the time of year when fraudsters are out in full force. While sleigh bells ring, it’s important to stay vigilant and protect yourself from scams that can quickly turn the season from merry to miserable.
As your financial partner, we are committed to safeguarding what matters most to you. To help you navigate the holiday season securely, we’ve gathered some key tips for staying safe from common scams and schemes.
1. Practice Safe Online Shopping
Online shopping is more popular than ever during the holidays, but scammers are just as active, creating fake websites or replicating legitimate ones to steal personal information and card details. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Visit websites directly: Instead of clicking on links from search engines or ads, type the retailer's website directly into your browser.
- Verify legitimacy: Review feedback on the company, research its reputation, and verify contact information to ensure the site is legitimate.
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true: If something feels off or the price seems unusually low, proceed with caution—it’s likely a scam.
2. Prevent Gift Card Scams
Gift cards are a popular holiday choice, but they’re also a common target for fraud. Scammers may promote fake offers or demand payment via gift cards. Protect yourself by:
- Buying from authorized sources: Only purchase gift cards from trusted retailers or the brand’s official website.
- Avoiding suspicious payment requests: Never send payment in the form of gift cards to unfamiliar individuals or companies, as legitimate businesses won’t ask for this.
- Stay alert: Exercise caution when encountering phone calls, websites, or social media platforms that promote gift card offers or request payment in the form of gift cards.
3. Travel Safety Tips
Whether you're heading out on a holiday getaway or visiting family, travel is another area where fraudsters try to strike. Stay safe with these tips:
- Use secure Wi-Fi for shopping and banking: Avoid public Wi-Fi when making purchases or accessing banking sites. Secure networks are a must for protecting your financial data.
- Hold your mail: If you’re away for an extended period, request a mail hold from the postal service to prevent thieves from noticing unattended deliveries.
- Beware of rental scams: Only book vacation rentals through reputable platforms, and avoid anyone who requests payment via cryptocurrency or gift cards.
- Travel light: Leave your checkbook and unnecessary credit cards at home to minimize risks while on the go.
4. Don’t Open Suspicious Emails or Links
Phishing scams are on the rise during the holidays. Fraudsters often disguise themselves as legitimate companies or institutions to trick you into revealing personal information.
Keep these points in mind:
- Recognize the signs: Trusted companies and institutions will never ask for sensitive information via email or phone.
- Stay skeptical: If an email seems suspicious or an offer feels off, don’t click on any links. If in doubt, reach out to the company directly to verify its authenticity.
We’re Here to Help!
If something doesn’t feel right or if you notice suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to assist you and ensure that your financial security remains intact during the holidays. By staying cautious and following these tips, you can enjoy the season with peace of mind, knowing you’ve taken the steps to protect yourself.
For more detailed information on how to protect yourself from fraud, visit our fraud protection resource center.
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