The holiday season brings increased scam activity. Here are a few practical ways to protect yourself:
Online Shopping & Deals
- Shop only on secure websites (look for "https://" and a lock icon)
- Avoid clicking links in emails or texts—go directly to official websites instead
- Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true
- Use credit cards rather than debit cards for online purchases (better fraud protection)
- Check seller ratings and reviews before buying from unfamiliar retailers
Payment Safety
- Never wire money or use gift cards for payments (they're nearly impossible to reverse)
- Avoid payment methods like cryptocurrency or money transfer apps
- Don't share credit card or personal information via email, text, or unsolicited phone calls
- Monitor your accounts regularly for unauthorized charges
Social Media & Apps
- Be cautious of holiday promotions on social media—scammers create fake ads
- Download apps only from official app stores
- Don't accept friend requests from people claiming to be celebrities or companies offering giveaways
Charity Giving
- Verify charities through sites like CharityNavigator.org or GuideStar before donating
- Donate directly to charity websites, not through links in emails
- Be wary of pressure to donate immediately or in a specific way
Gift Cards & Codes
- Buy gift cards directly from retailers, not resellers
- Check for scratches or tampering before purchasing
- Don't share gift card codes over email or text
Phone & Email Safety
- Don't answer calls from unknown numbers asking for personal information
- Legitimate companies won't request passwords or financial details by email
- Report suspicious emails as phishing to your email provider
Red Flags to Watch
- Urgent requests for payment or personal information
- Poor spelling and grammar in emails
- Requests to verify account information
- Unsolicited offers or unexpected prizes
Stay vigilant and verify before you trust!
If you think your are the victim of a scam or fruad, give us a call. We will be glad to help you. 580-782-2266 x1
