The holiday season is a joyful time of year, but unfortunately it is also the time where scam artists take advantage of our “good cheer”. Here are a few scams to look out for this holiday season:
- Fake shopping/coupon apps. If you give your personal information and credit card number, your identity could be stolen or you could find yourself the victim of fraud. Take a few moments to check on the Google Play Store or the App Store to see that the publisher actually came from the store that is offering the deal or coupon. If you're still not sure, call the store's corporate customer service department.
- Fake charities. Be cautious of phony charities asking for money. Again, with a little research, you should be able to determine whether or not they are legitimate. If you're considering giving to a new charity, check them out on www.give.org first.
- Fake shipping notifications. Phony missed delivery notices are rampant this year. It is best not to click any link that states your item(s) have shipped or download any forms sent from a shipping service imposter. You can always check your online purchase tracking number directly with the company that is shipping to track your package.
- Fake e-cards. If there is no sender name, you don't recognize the sender, or you are asked to share additional information, it is most likely a scam.
- Be cautious when shopping online. Imposter or lookalike websites may appear identical to the untrained eye. Always double check the web address to make sure you're on the correct site, use a credit card instead of a debit card, and make sure the sites you purchase from have “https” in the URL (this means they're secure). We have a consumer guide with tips for online shopping that you can read here.
- Be wary of family members claiming to be in trouble. If you receive a call, text, or email out of the blue from a relative claiming to need financial assistance, confirm with another family member that the information is true. It is not uncommon for criminals to pose as long-lost family members online or over the phone seeking “help” around the holidays.
- Temp job positions. Lots of temporary positions in sales arise around the holiday season, but be wary of a temporary holiday job that asks you to share personal information over the phone or online. Apply in person or directly on a retailer’s site.
- Unusual forms of payment such as a prepaid card, wire transfers or third party. No reputable service or online retailer would require these types of payments. And remember, once done, it cannot be undone and the money is gone forever. Best to err on the side of caution and check out our consumer guide to Privacy When You Pay.
- “Free” offers that also ask for personal information. Stay away from these types of deals as they are most likely scams that can lead to identity theft or fraud.
- Gift exchanges on social media. An example of this could be a “buy one and get 10 in return” offer. If it sounds too good to be true, it could be an illegal pyramid scheme.
Unfortunately, the majority of people who fall victim to these types of scams are also the least likely to be able to recover when harm is done. The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse has made it our mission for the past 24 years to reach out to groups of people like the underprivileged and the elderly so that they can recognize scam red flags and protect their financial wellbeing. PRC is a non-profit that relies on your generosity to provide resources, so in the spirit of the holidays, please make a donation so we may continue our educational work.
