The holiday season is a time for generosity and connection—but unfortunately, it’s also a peak period for financial scams. Fraudsters take advantage of increased spending, charitable giving, and online activity. By staying alert to common schemes and practicing a few precautions, you can safeguard your money and peace of mind.
Recognizing Common Holiday Scams
Scammers often prey on emotions like excitement or urgency. Some of the most frequent include:
- Fake charity appeals: Calls, emails, or social media posts ask for donations. Always verify organizations through trusted sources such as CharityNavigator.org before giving.
- Online shopping scams: “Too-good-to-be-true” deals on unfamiliar websites collect payments but never ship products. Stick to well-known retailers and check for “https” in the web address.
- Phishing emails and texts: Messages claiming to be from shipping companies or retailers may contain links designed to steal your information. Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown senders.
- Gift card requests: These may appear to come from friends, relatives, or even religious groups. Authentic organizations will never ask for gift cards as payment or donation.
- Suspicious Facebook ads: Ads offering luxury electronics at very low prices are a red flag. Search online for the company—if you find little or no information, that’s a warning sign.
Protect Yourself and Your Finances
A few mindful habits can make a big difference:
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication on financial accounts. Never reuse the same password across multiple accounts.
- Monitor your accounts regularly for unusual transactions and report suspicious activity promptly.
- Limit how much personal information you share online or by phone with someone you cannot verify. Scammers often gather small bits of data to seem credible later.
- Slow down and verify before making unexpected payments, donations, or sharing financial details.
- Use a credit card for online purchases rather than platforms like PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo. Credit cards offer stronger consumer protections.
- Shred sensitive papers, such as holiday mail containing account details, before discarding.
Stay Connected and Informed
If something feels off, talk it through with a trusted family member, friend, or advisor before taking action. And if you have been victimized, don’t be embarrassed. Reporting scams to agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your bank helps protect others.
Take advantage of community programs that offer fraud awareness workshops. The AARP Fraud Watch Network, for example, can keep your knowledge current and your confidence high.
The holidays should be about connection, not worry. By staying alert and cautious, you can avoid scams and focus on what truly matters—celebrating with loved ones. Remember: if something feels off, trust your instincts. A moment of caution can save you from a season of stress.
Jill Shuman is a retired writer and librarian from Reading. She is an active member of several local senior initiatives, including Reading Friends of Seniors 60Plus and AARP Fraud Watch Network.
