1. Spot fake package delivery texts
A fake delivery text says a package from a big name carrier service is delayed or needs an updated address, then links to a look-alike website built to collect your credit card number. When you’re expecting several orders, a “delivery problem” can be easy to believe. Don’t use the link in the message. Go to the carrier’s official website or app yourself and check the tracking information there.
The tell is a payment request for a small redelivery fee on a link you didn’t seek out.
2. Watch for fake traffic citation texts
A text may claim you owe a traffic fine and threaten license suspension, registration problems, or other penalties. The Hawaii State Judiciary does not send unsolicited texts demanding payment, and official notices are generally mailed. Don’t click the message’s link or share personal information. Check for a citation through the Judiciary’s official eCourt Kōkua case search.
The tell is an unsolicited text demanding immediate payment for a traffic citation.
3. Verify utility disconnection calls
Scammers may pose as your electric company and threaten to shut off your power unless you pay immediately. Hawaiian Electric has warned customers that scammers have spoofed its caller ID and demanded payment by methods it does not accept, including Bitcoin and prepaid debit cards. The same pressure tactic is worth watching for no matter who provides your electricity.
A threat like that can feel especially urgent when you’re hosting guests or preparing for a festive meal. Hang up and call the number on your utility bill to check your account.
The tell is an immediate shutoff threat paired with a demand to pay through an unusual method.
4. Secure your rewards account
A message that appears to come from an airline or rewards program may warn that your points are “expiring” or that your account needs “verification.” Scammers can use a familiar program name, such as Atmos Rewards, to make a fake sign-in page look worth opening.
If you’ve saved points or miles for a trip, protect the account with a unique password and multi-factor authentication. When a message asks you to sign in, open the company’s app or website yourself instead of following its link.
The tell is an unexpected message pushing you to enter your credentials on a page it supplied.
5. Confirm family emergency calls
A scammer may pretend to be a relative in trouble, using a panicked call, text, or cloned voice to ask for money right away. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends responding to these fake emergency scams by hanging up and calling your family member back at a number you already know.
For example, a caller who sounds like your grandson might contact you saying he lost his wallet and needs a flight home for Christmas or relay another holiday emergency. Do not respond right away. Hang up and call another family member to check on the story. A family code word agreed on in advance can offer another check.
The tell is pressure to send money before you can speak to your relative through a trusted contact method.
Scammers count on a familiar name and a rushed decision to fill their holiday stockings, but you can fill it with coal instead. When a message asks for money or account information, pause and confirm it through the official website or another independent source. Do not attempt to verify the message using a link or number provided in the communication.
HawaiiUSA will never ask for your PIN, username, password, or one-time security code. If something looks wrong on your account, call (800) 379.1300 or visit a branch location.
