How Can I Protect Myself From Holiday Scams

Holidays bring joy and family time, but they also bring added stressors, making you vulnerable to identity theft and scams. Scammers target the urgency and scarcity of holiday shopping. Amid real dangers, protect yourself by being vigilant and safeguarding personal information. Whether dealing with financial strain, travel issues, or time constraints, take precautions to ensure a secure holiday season.

Here are some simple measures you can adopt to protect your money and relish the holidays without falling prey to deceitful tactics.

9 Ways You Can Protect Yourself From Holiday Scams

Use only legitimate HTPPS sites:

CyberGhost recommends sticking to known and trusted websites to evade holiday scams. However, this isn’t always an option. When encountering a new business or platform, ensure its security before making any purchases. Keep an eye out for the padlock symbol and an https:// code at the start of the URL. These markers signify a secure connection, protecting your online activities from unauthorized access.

Keep a close check on your account activity:

Regularly check your transaction history to ensure accuracy, especially during the holiday season when spending tends to increase. Consistent monitoring helps in promptly notifying your bank or credit union about any unauthorized transactions or discrepancies in your account.

Use digital wallet for payment:

Digital wallets like PayPal, Google Pay, ApplePay, and credit cards keep your money safe in a few smart ways. First, they use fancy codes to protect your payment info when you buy things. It’s like a secret language that only your wallet and the store understand. They also turn your important card details into temporary tokens, making it tricky for bad guys to use them. Some wallets ask for extra checks, like your fingerprint or face, to make sure it’s really you making a purchase. If anything seems fishy, the wallet’s watchdogs notice and might stop the payment. So, digital wallets are like superguards for your money online!

Check authenticity of email/text: 

Scammers send fake emails or texts pretending to be your bank or a government agency, trying to trick you into giving them money or personal info. They create fake emergencies to make you act fast. They might send links that can harm your computer or ask you to download something bad. To stay safe, check who sent the message, don’t click on strange links, and look for mistakes in the message. Employ extra security (like two-factor authentication), contact the real organization if you’re unsure, and keep your computer updated. Following these steps helps you avoid falling for scams!

Avoid shopping on public WiFi:

Exercise caution when shopping on the go with Wi-Fi. While a VPN enhances security, refrain from conducting transactions on unsecured networks. Stay vigilant and consider the following to ensure your safety from scams.

1. Don’t access personal or financial data; assume public networks are insecure.

2. Log out of accounts after use; avoid permanent sign-ins.

3. Heed warnings from the web browser and keep it updated.

4. Disable automatic Wi-Fi connections for more control.

Track your package only on company website:

With many shoppers placing numerous online orders for the holidays, scammers are sending deceptive texts and emails, posing as delivery companies. These messages often include a harmful link disguised as a tracking link or a delivery notice, aiming to either extract your personal details or infect your device with malware. If you’re anticipating a package, utilize the tracking feature directly on the delivery companies’ website to ensure security.

Strengthen your password security:

Bolster your account security by using unique, complex passwords, especially for financial accounts, and enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible for an added layer of protection.

Beware of card skimming devices:

Card skimming, a method employed by thieves to capture your credit or debit card data during use, is a growing concern, especially at vulnerable points of purchase like gas pumps, ATMs, and ticket dispensers. Skimming devices, often discreet, can be attached externally or internally to machines, recording your card information. Some may include a hidden camera or a fake keypad to capture your PIN. 

To protect yourself, scrutinize machines for signs of tampering, avoid non-bank ATMs, check keypad integrity, and block your PIN entry. Additionally, choose well-monitored, public machines, and sign up for fraud alerts to promptly detect and report any suspicious activity. Trust your instincts and opt for alternative machines or payment methods if you sense anything amiss.

Know the red flags of charity scams:

Americans donated $319 billion to charities last year, as per Giving USA estimates, but with con artists exploiting people’s generosity, especially during the holidays, it’s crucial to recognize charity scam red flags. 

Federal Trade Commission warns of the following charity scam signs: immediate donations, non-traceable payments, false pledges, deceptive names, vague pleas, and sweepstakes promises. Stay vigilant, research, and ask for information.

To safeguard against charity scams, ensure you verify an organization’s details, mission, and tax status. Research online for reviews, state registration, and use evaluation sites. Exercise caution on social media, especially with crowdfunding requests. Protect personal information, opting for traceable payment methods like checks or credit cards. Avoid unconventional payment methods and verify legitimacy before clicking links. Document donations with receipts and monitor accounts to prevent fraud. These precautions ensure your generosity benefits legitimate causes.