Holiday Season Scams: FBI Warns Public to Stay Vigilant

2 min read 27-11-2024

Holiday Season Scams: FBI Warns Public to Stay Vigilant

The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and giving. Unfortunately, it's also a prime time for scammers looking to capitalize on the generosity and excitement of the season. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is urging the public to remain vigilant against a surge in holiday-themed scams.

Common Holiday Scams to Watch Out For

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, but some common holiday scams include:

Phishing Emails and Texts:

These messages often mimic legitimate organizations, such as charities or shipping companies. They may contain links to fake websites designed to steal your personal information, including login credentials and credit card numbers. Be wary of unsolicited emails or texts, particularly those that create a sense of urgency. Always verify the sender's authenticity before clicking any links or providing personal information.

Fake Online Shopping Sites:

These sites often offer incredibly low prices on popular holiday items. However, once you place an order, you may never receive your goods, or you might receive counterfeit products. Before making online purchases, research the seller's reputation and check for secure payment gateways (look for "https"). Read customer reviews carefully.

Charity Scams:

During the holidays, many legitimate charities solicit donations. However, scammers often create fake charities to exploit people's generosity. Before donating to a charity, research its legitimacy through reputable sources like Charity Navigator or GuideStar. Verify the charity's registration and ensure your donation is secure.

Gift Card Scams:

Gift cards are popular holiday gifts, but they're also a target for scammers. They may request gift card numbers as payment for goods or services, or they may trick you into purchasing fraudulent gift cards. Never provide gift card numbers to someone you don't trust. Be wary of requests for gift card payment.

Social Media Scams:

Scammers are increasingly using social media platforms to target potential victims. Be cautious of unsolicited friend requests and suspicious advertisements. Never click on links from unknown sources, and be wary of any social media promotions promising unrealistic rewards.

Protecting Yourself During the Holiday Season

The FBI offers the following advice to help you avoid holiday scams:

Verify the authenticity of any communications before responding or clicking links. Contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or email address.
Shop online only from reputable websites with secure payment gateways.
Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
Never provide personal information, including credit card numbers or Social Security numbers, to unsolicited requests.
Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts.
Monitor your bank and credit card accounts regularly for suspicious activity.
Report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.

By remaining vigilant and following these simple precautions, you can help protect yourself from holiday scams and enjoy a safe and happy holiday season. Remember, if something seems suspicious, it probably is. Don't hesitate to contact law enforcement if you believe you've been targeted by a scam.