The holiday season is bustling with excitement, but it also brings a higher risk of scams. With everyone rushing for last-minute shopping and travel bookings, it’s easy to overlook potential threats. According to Amy Nofziger from the AARP Fraud Watch Network, the holidays create many opportunities for scammers to target unsuspecting consumers.
A recent AARP survey reveals that nearly 90% of respondents experienced holiday-related scams last year. Common schemes included fake shipping alerts, stolen packages, and counterfeit charity requests. Understanding these tactics can help you stay safe this season.
Beware of Fake Retail Ads
Scammers often set up fake shops on social media. They sell imitation products using stolen images and logos, disappearing soon after taking your payment. Nofziger advises doing a quick online search with the vendor’s name followed by “scam” or “fraud” to see if others have reported issues.
When shopping online, always use a credit card. This gives you better protection and makes it easier to recover funds if something goes wrong.
Gift Card Risks
Buying gift cards can be deceiving. Scammers may steal card numbers before you make a purchase. They record the details and can drain the funds shortly after you buy them. Nofziger suggests trying to pick cards that are heavily watched, or opt for electronic gift cards, which are generally safer.
Fake Delivery Notifications
With more packages arriving during the holidays, scammers use this to their advantage by sending phony delivery texts. These alerts often claim there’s a problem with your package. Instead, if you get a text asking for your personal info, contact the shipping company directly to verify the message’s authenticity. Most of the time, these are just phishing attempts.
Travel Scams
Looking for travel deals can lead to trouble if you stumble upon a suspiciously low price. Nofziger mentions a rise in car rental scams where individuals are tricked into prepaying with gift cards. When they arrive at their destination, there’s often no reservation waiting for them. Stick to reputable companies and don’t be afraid to research unfamiliar sites.
Remember, if you find yourself a victim of a scam, you are not alone. Report the incident quickly to local authorities, the Federal Trade Commission, or the AARP Fraud Watch Network. Staying informed and cautious can make all the difference this holiday season.
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