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Beware of Holiday Scams

According to the FBI Internet Crime Report, Americans lost over $10.2 billion to cyber-enabled fraud, including $107 million to spoofing in 2022. Even savvy people can be caught by sophisticated schemes. Don’t be a victim; here are some common types of threats you should know about.

SPOOFING

Spoofing is when online scammers message you, posing as a trusted vendor you know. They use email, social media, texts and other messages to lure people to fake stores that steal your money, credit card details, or personal information. Don’t click on any URL that looks slightly odd.

If your business has been spoofed, warn your customers to be on the lookout. Then, ensure that they have access to your website, email and shipping information.

DELAYED DELIVERY NOTIFICATIONS

You may receive a message claiming your package has been delayed and you must pay a fee to have it delivered. Think before you click.

The post office and other delivery services usually leave a note in your mailbox or at your door, rather than send a message. So, unless you expect a package and are positive that you recognize the sender, delete the message. Generally, if you are surprised by messages, or receive one that does not seem right, it is probably a scam.

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Protect Yourself From Financial Scams

No matter your age, it’s good to know how to protect your financial accounts. Here are a few proactive habits that can help safeguard your finances.

BE A MONITOR

Review your bank and credit card accounts regularly to catch anything that looks unusual. Most of these companies let you set up notifications that alert you if a transaction exceeds a predetermined dollar amount or an unusual purchase based on your past buying history.

CALLER BEWARE

If someone claiming to be your bank calls or emails you to ask you for a money order or credit card number to clear a debt or to confirm transaction details, chances are it’s a scam. Instead, contact your bank using the phone number on your bank statement or the back of your credit card to verify that the inquiry was legit.

MIND YOUR TRASH

Throwing away whole bills or credit offers is an invitation for identity theft. Shred anything that has account numbers or financial information. Consider requesting paperless billing to cut down on the actual mail you get. And if you travel, put a stop on your mail or have someone you trust pick it up for you.