Better Business Bureau warns of the ’12 scams of Christmas’
ICFO The 12 Scams of Christmas
As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to be aware of the 12 scams and frauds that commonly occur during Christmas.
The holiday season is a time of giving, sharing, and spreading joy. Unfortunately, scammers and fraudsters also see this as an opportunity to prey on unsuspecting individuals. From fake charities soliciting donations to online shopping scams targeting shoppers, the 12 scams and frauds of Christmas are varied and can affect anyone. It is important to stay vigilant and informed to protect yourself and your loved ones during this festive time.
- 1. Fake Charities Soliciting Donations: One of the most common scams during the holiday season is fake charities soliciting donations. Scammers often create fake websites or send out emails requesting donations for a cause that may tug at your heartstrings. It is crucial to research the organization before donating and ensure that your money is going to a legitimate charity.
- 2. Online Shopping Scams Targeting Shoppers: With the rise of online shopping, scammers have found new ways to target shoppers during the holiday season. They may create fake websites that mimic popular online retailers or offer deals that seem too good to be true. Always shop from reputable websites and be cautious of deals that seem too good to pass up.
- 3. Phishing Emails Impersonating Retailers: Phishing emails impersonating retailers are another common scam during the holidays. Scammers send out emails pretending to be from well-known retailers, asking for personal information or login credentials. Always be wary of emails asking for sensitive information and verify the sender before clicking on any links.
- 4. Gift Card Scams Preying on Consumers: Gift card scams are also prevalent during the holiday season. Scammers may sell fake gift cards or ask for payment in gift cards for products or services that do not exist. Be cautious when purchasing gift cards from third-party sellers and only buy from reputable retailers.
- 5. Delivery Scams Exploiting Holiday Rush: During the holiday rush, scammers may exploit delivery services to carry out their scams. They may send fake delivery notifications or pose as delivery drivers to steal packages. Always track your packages and verify the authenticity of any delivery notifications before providing any personal information.
- 6. Social Media Scams Promising Deals: Social media scams promising deals are another way scammers target consumers during the holidays. They may create fake social media accounts offering discounts on popular products or services. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true and always verify the legitimacy of the seller before making a purchase.
- 7. Fake Job Offers During Holiday Season: Fake job offers targeting job seekers during the holiday season are also a common scam. Scammers may offer fake jobs with high pay and benefits to lure in unsuspecting victims. Always research the company and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
- 8. Travel Scams Offering Unrealistic Deals: Travel scams offering unrealistic deals on holiday vacations are another way scammers take advantage of consumers. They may offer discounted travel packages or prizes that require payment upfront. Always book your travel through reputable agencies and be cautious of deals that seem too good to pass up.
- 9. Romance Scams Capitalizing on Loneliness: Romance scams targeting individuals looking for companionship during the holidays are a growing concern. Scammers may create fake online profiles to develop a relationship and ask for money or personal information. Be cautious when engaging with strangers online and never send money to someone you have not met in person.
- 10. Charity Scams Taking Advantage of Generosity: Charity scams that take advantage of people’s generosity during the holiday season are especially despicable. Scammers may impersonate legitimate charities or create fake donation campaigns to exploit donors. Always research the organization before donating and be cautious of unsolicited donation requests.
- 11. Investment Scams Promising High Returns: Investment scams promising high returns on holiday investments are another way scammers target individuals seeking to grow their wealth. They may offer unrealistic returns or investment opportunities that sound too good to be true. Always research the investment opportunity and be wary of promises that seem too good to pass up.
- 12. Prize Scams Luring Victims with False Wins: Prize scams that lure victims with false wins are a common tactic used by scammers during the holiday season. They may claim that you have won a prize or lottery but require payment or personal information to claim it. Be cautious of unsolicited prize notifications and always verify the legitimacy of the organization before providing any information.
