![]() These phishing emails or texts generally prompt you to click on the provided link to log into your account to update your compromised information, so scammers can steal your information. Be particularly mindful of purported communications from your bank or credit card company, warning you that your account has been compromised. Phishing Emails or Texts. Cybercriminals take advantage of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to dupe consumers via phishing emails or texts that contain suspicious links. For GoFundMe type of donations research the organizer or the group behind the campaign before making a donation. If donating online, research the charity thoroughly, check with the Better Business Bureau, and take a look at the charity’s URL and website for telltale signs of fraud, including misspellings, bad grammar, and no contact information. These types of scams can be particularly difficult to decipher, so before donating money be extra cautious about selecting a charity. Instead, purchase gift cards from reputable retailers.įake Charities. During the holidays, cybercriminals seek to take advantage of consumers’ generosity through fraudulent charities, GoFundMe campaigns, and other charitable causes. While they may have you believe you are buying a gift card on sale, in fact you may end up receiving a gift card with zero money value. For example, avoid online stores or advertisements that purport to sell commercial gift cards at deeply discounted prices. Gift Card Scams. Gift card scams involve either scamming consumers into buying fake gift cards or tricking consumers into using gift cards to pay for fraudulent goods or services. Make sure you pay attention to the domain address of the link to ensure it is a reputable delivery site and be especially cautions with delivery websites that ask for your personal or payment information in order to complete a package delivery. Do not be quick to click on the link provided in a text or email, as you may be directed to a website designed to steal your information. ![]() Beware of fake delivery notification emails or text messages alerting you of a missed package delivery. Missed Delivery/Non-Delivery Notification. With the rise in online shopping, lots of packages arrive at our front door during the holiday season. Consumers may end up with stolen credit card information or paying for an item that is never received. These scams target shoppers looking to buy luxury or hard-to-find items at an affordable price. Be particularly careful with social media ads that link you to bogus online stores or product listings. Watch out for red flags, such as deeply discounted prices especially for in-demand items, like electronics, jewelry, and clothing. Here are the most common scams that consumers may encounter during the holiday season this year:įake Online Stores or “Lookalike Stores.” Be on the lookout for online stores that are either entirely fake or made to look like a legitimate store. The report notes that in 2022 Americans lost a combined total of over $281 million to internet scams, including online shopping and “non-delivery” schemes, that generally spike during the holiday season. It’s important for all of us to do all we can to protect our hard-earned money and our personal information from financial predators.” 2023 Holiday ScamsĪccording to the FBI’s 2022 Internet Crimes Report, North Carolina is ranked among the top 20 States for online financial fraud, both in the number of victims and in monetary losses. “Whether shopping online for a gift, choosing a charity for a donation, or applying for seasonal work to earn extra money, it is imperative for everyone to stay vigilant against online scams and identity theft schemes. “December is the month of giving, but it’s also the time of year when cybercriminals try to take advantage of consumers, quickly turning a joyous season into a living nightmare,” King said. Attorney’s Office’s efforts to protect seniors from online scams, federal prosecutors hosted a game of Fraud Bingo today, to educate older Americans about online fraudsters and internet schemes that specifically target the elderly. King has issued a warning to alert consumers about a potential uptick in online scams during the holiday season, and cautioned against financial schemes that target older adults.
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