Phishing Emails
Phishing emails are a year-round issue, but they tend to surge during the holiday season. Scammers send emails that appear to be from trusted organizations, asking you to click on links or provide personal information. Always verify the sender's authenticity before taking any action.
To protect yourself from phishing emails:
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Be cautious of emails requesting you to update or verify your information, especially if they threaten to suspend or close your account if you don’t comply.
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Check the sender’s email address and the URL of any links before clicking on them. They might look legitimate but have subtle differences or misspellings.
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Avoid opening attachments that you are not expecting or that seem suspicious. They might contain viruses or other malicious software.
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Use a spam filter and antivirus software on your device and keep them updated regularly.
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Report any suspicious emails to the company or organization they claim to be from and delete them from your inbox.
Package Delivery Scams
With the increase in online shopping during the holidays, package delivery scams are becoming more common. Scammers may send fake delivery notifications or request payment for redelivery. Always double-check the delivery company's website or contact them directly to confirm the legitimacy of the message.
To avoid package delivery scams:
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Never click on a link or call back a number from an unexpected delivery notice.
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Contact the delivery service or seller directly using a verified number or website.
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Use a spam filter and antivirus software on your device and keep them updated regularly.
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Report any suspicious messages to the company or organization they claim to be from and delete them from your inbox.
Fake Travel Websites
Planning a holiday trip? Be cautious of fraudulent travel websites that offer deals that seem too good to be true. Research any travel agency thoroughly and use reputable booking platforms to avoid falling victim to these scams.
Signs of a fake travel website:
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The website does not have a secure connection (https) or a padlock icon in the address bar.
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The website asks you to pay by wire transfer, gift card, or other untraceable methods.
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The website does not provide a clear cancellation or refund policy, or charges high fees for changes or cancellations.
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The website does not have a physical address, phone number, or email address, or the contact information is invalid or unresponsive.
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The website has negative reviews or complaints from other customers, or no reviews at all.
Text/Phone Call Scams
Scammers often send text messages or make phone calls, claiming you've won a prize or have unpaid bills. They may ask for personal information or request payment. Don't share sensitive information or send money without verifying the legitimacy of the call or message.
To protect yourself from text/phone call scams:
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Never click on links, open attachments, call back numbers, or reply with your information in unsolicited messages or calls.
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Contact the real company or organization directly using a verified number or website and confirm if the message or call is genuine.
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Use a spam filter and antivirus software on your device and keep them updated regularly.
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Report any suspicious messages or calls to the company or organization they claim to be from and delete them from your inbox.
Charity Scams
The holiday season encourages charitable giving, but scammers take advantage of this goodwill. Be cautious when donating to unfamiliar charities, and only give to reputable organizations. Verify their legitimacy before contributing.
Gift Card Scams
Gift cards are a popular holiday gift, but scammers have found ways to exploit them. They may trick you into buying gift cards for them or claim to offer gift card discounts. Never share gift card numbers or PINs with strangers, and only purchase them from reputable retailers.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Holiday Scams:
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Be skeptical of unsolicited emails, messages, or calls.
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Verify the legitimacy of any request for personal or financial information.
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Research the organizations or websites you interact with during the holiday season.
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Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts and enable two-factor authentication.
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Keep your devices and security software up to date.
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Trust your instincts; if something feels off, it's better to be cautious than sorry. If it’s too good to be true, it usually is.
While the holiday season is a time of giving, it's crucial to be vigilant and protect yourself from potential scams. By staying informed and cautious, you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season with your loved ones.
