Last year, Americans reported losing more than $8.8 billion to fraud, a 30% increase over 2021. Here are some of the latest holiday scams to watch out for, along with tips for staying safe.
- Stealing mail and packages:To ensure safe delivery, sign up for USPS Informed Delivery®, which gives you a preview of your incoming mail and packages and allows you to control their delivery.
- Fake charities:Before giving money to charities, research them through the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance or Charity Navigator. For GoFundMe and similar campaigns, look into the organizer or group behind it before donating.
- Gift card scams:Legitimate companies will never demand payment via gift cards. Plus, if you’re asked to pay fees or “protect your money” by buying gift cards, it’s a scam. Also, make sure your gift cards haven’t been tampered with. Check the back and look to see if the PIN has been exposed. Be sure to get a receipt in case your card is lost or stolen.
- Lookalike online stores offering big discounts:As much as possible, you should try to buy from reputable online stores. If you opt to buy from a smaller retailer, do your research (a Google search of “[Company name] + scam” is a good start), and use a credit card for your purchases.
- Missed delivery notification scam texts:Track deliveries through the delivery company’s official website using the provided tracking number. Make sure to visit the site directly — don’t use the link provided in a text message or email.
- Social ads promoting fraudulent items:Don’t assume a site or store is legitimate just because you saw it on social media. Instead, always look for warning signs indicating that you’ve been taken to a fake or malicious online store, such as poor spelling, bad grammar, poor-quality images or fake-sounding reviews. Be especially careful if an online store doesn’t include contact information (other than an online form).
- Holiday travel and online airfare scams: Purchase airline tickets directly from the airline (or through reputable third-party sellers that offer customer service). If you receive any messages about your trip, contact the airline directly to make sure the message is legitimate.
Finally, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t let a good deal cloud your judgment — be skeptical and stay safe
