tips for avoiding common holiday scams

Discover the top holiday scams to watch out for and learn valuable tips to protect yourself during the holiday season.
 

understanding the most common holiday scams

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but unfortunately, it's also a time when scammers are on the prowl. Understanding the most common holiday scams can help you stay one step ahead and protect yourself.
 

online shopping scams

When shopping online during the holiday season, it's important to stay vigilant and avoid falling for online shopping scams. Make sure the website has a secure connection and look for reviews from other customers to ensure its legitimacy. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often lure shoppers with outrageously low prices to entice them into making a purchase. This tactic includes advertising heavily discounted gift cards that ultimately end up being fake.
 

travel scams

Travel scams are prevalent during the holiday season as many people are planning vacations. To protect yourself from travel scams, it's important to do thorough research before booking any accommodations or travel packages. Check reviews from other travelers and verify the legitimacy of the travel agency or website. It's also wise to book directly with reputable airlines, hotels, or travel agencies.
 

pro tip: Be cautious of unsolicited travel offers or deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to convince you to book immediately. It's important to take your time and make informed decisions. By staying informed and being cautious, you can protect yourself.
 

charity scams

During the holiday season, many people feel generous and want to give back to those in need. However, it's essential to be cautious of charity scams. Scammers often create fake charities or impersonate legitimate ones to steal money from well-meaning individuals. Research the organization before making a donation. Look for their official website, check if they are registered with a recognized authority, and read reviews or testimonials from other donors. By being diligent and verifying the legitimacy of a charity, you can make sure that your donation goes to those who genuinely need it.

pro tip: One of the easiest ways to avoid charity scams and know exactly where your funds are being delivered is by donating directly to the charity's official website instead of using a third party.

quick tips for avoiding holiday scams

1. Be cautious of holiday deals that seem too good to be true.

2. Only shop on reputable websites and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

3. Keep your personal and financial information secure and never share it with unknown sources.

4. Be aware of fake emails, texts, and calls from scammers posing as legitimate companies.

5. Always double-check the legitimacy of the charity before making any donations.

6. Use a credit card with fraud protection when making online purchases.

7. Monitor your accounts regularly and report any suspicious activity to your financial institution or credit card company immediately.
 

start protecting your identity today!

Defend your family, identity, and credit this holiday season by enrolling in IDProtect® Plus! You, your family, and any other joint account holders will gain access to services, including Identity Monitoring, Cellular Telephone Protection, Reimbursement Coverage, and so much more!

Apply today by clicking the button below, within Online Banking, stopping by any of our branches, or calling a Member Service Advisor at: (800) 648-8035.
 

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