The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and generosity. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to exploit the festive spirit and the increased online activity. Here are some common scams to watch out for during the holidays, along with tips on protecting yourself.
1. Gift card scams
Gift cards are a popular holiday gift, but they are also a favourite target for scammers. A common tactic is to trick people into buying gift cards as a form of payment for fake services or debts.
Example: This happened to one of our clients. A new staff member identified on LinkedIn was targeted to buy gift cards. The reasoning was that the owner wanted to give them out as bonuses. Being new, no-one would find out and spoil the surprise.
Protection tips: Only buy gift cards from reputable retailers. Check the packaging for signs of tampering. Most importantly, never use gift cards to pay for services or debts.
2. Impersonation scams
Scammers often impersonate trusted entities, such as banks, government agencies, or friends and family, to steal personal information or money. These scams can occur via phone calls, emails, or social media messages.
Example: A resident in a retirement village we look after got caught in this scam. A virus protection company was impersonated. They were allowed to log into his computer. They then asked him to log into his bank as they suspected it may have been compromised. They then captured his banking details and emptied his account.
Protection tips: Verify the identity of the caller or sender before providing any information. Call them back using phone numbers directly from their website. Be cautious of unsolicited requests for personal information.
3. Malware scams
Malware scams involve tricking victims into downloading malicious software that can steal personal information, lock files for ransom, or spy on online activities. These scams often take the form of fake software updates, email attachments or malicious links.
Example: You receive an email or phone call claiming to be from a well-known software company urging you to download an urgent security update. The link installs malware on your device.
Protection tips: Keep your software and antivirus programs up to date. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
4. Email phishing
Phishing scams involve sending fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, aiming to trick recipients into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Example: You receive an email from what looks like a popular online retailer claiming there was an issue with your recent order and asking you to click a link to resolve it. The link leads to a fake website designed to steal your login details.
Protection tips: Check the sender’s email address for authenticity. Look for spelling and grammar errors in the email.
5. Spoofing
Spoofing involves disguising communication from an unknown source as being from a known, trusted source.
Example: You receive a call that appears to be from your bank’s phone number, but it’s a scammer using caller ID spoofing.
Protection tips: Be sceptical of unsolicited calls or messages. Verify the source by contacting the organisation directly. Use two-factor authentication for added security.
6. Smishing and vishing
Smishing (SMS phishing) and vishing (voice phishing) are like email phishing but occur via text messages and phone calls. Scammers use these methods to steal personal information or money.
Example: You receive a text message claiming to be from your bank, stating there is suspicious activity on your account and asking you to click a link to verify your identity. The link leads to a fake website.
Protection tips: Do not click on links in unsolicited text messages. Verify the sender by contacting the organisation directly. Be cautious of urgent requests for personal information.
7. Fake online retailer websites
Scammers create fake online stores that mimic legitimate retailers, offering deals too good to be true. These sites are designed to steal your payment information or sell counterfeit products.
Example: You find an online store offering a popular gadget at a significantly reduced price. After making a purchase, you never receive the item, and your payment information is compromised.
Protection tips: Stick to well-known, reputable retailers. Check for customer reviews and secure website indicators (https). Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
8. Holiday charity scams
During the holiday season, many people donate to charities. Scammers exploit this generosity by creating fake charities or impersonating real ones to steal donations.
Example: You receive a phone call from someone claiming to represent a well-known charity, asking for a donation. The caller pressures you to donate immediately over the phone.
Protection tips: Donate directly through the charity’s official website. Research the charity. Be cautious of high-pressure tactics.
9. Fake shipping delivery notifications
With the increase in online shopping during the holidays, scammers send fake shipping notifications via email or text, claiming an issue with your delivery. These messages often contain links to phishing websites.
Example: You receive an email that appears to be from a shipping company. It states there is a problem with your delivery and asks you to click a link to resolve it. The link leads to a fake website designed to steal your personal information.
Protection tips: Track shipments through official carrier websites or apps. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages. Verify the sender by contacting the shipping company directly.
10. Holiday travel scams
Scammers target holiday travellers with fake travel deals, bookings, or exclusive packages to steal personal information or money.
Example: You find a travel deal online that seems too good to be true. After making a booking, you discover the website is fake and your payment information is compromised.
Protection tips: Book travel through reputable websites or directly with airlines and hotels. Be cautious of deals that seem unusually cheap. Verify the legitimacy of travel offers before making a payment.
By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can help protect yourself from holiday scams and enjoy a safe and joyful festive season. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Have a great holiday break!
