12 Holiday Scams to Watch Out For This Season
The holiday season is a time of joy and generosity, but it's also a prime opportunity for scammers seeking to exploit unsuspecting individuals. To help you stay vigilant, we've compiled a list of the top 12 holiday scams to watch out for, based on insights from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
1. Misleading Social Media Ads
Be cautious of ads on social media promoting products at unrealistically low prices. Many consumers report paying for items they never receive or receiving counterfeit goods. Always research the seller and read reviews before making a purchase.
2. Social Media Gift Exchanges
Schemes like the "Secret Sister" gift exchange lure participants with promises of receiving multiple gifts in return for one. In reality, these are illegal pyramid schemes that often result in disappointment and potential exposure of personal information.
3. Holiday Apps
Festive apps offering features like video chats with Santa or holiday-themed games can sometimes collect excessive personal data or contain malware. Review privacy policies and permissions before downloading, and prefer apps from reputable developers.
4. Fake Toll Collection Texts
Scammers impersonate toll agencies, sending texts claiming you owe fees and directing you to fraudulent payment links. Verify any toll charges directly with official agencies and avoid clicking on unsolicited links.
5. Free Gift Cards
Unsolicited emails or messages offering free gift cards in exchange for personal information are often phishing attempts. Legitimate companies rarely ask for sensitive data this way. Delete suspicious messages and avoid clicking on unknown links.
6. Temporary Holiday Jobs
Job seekers should be wary of offers requiring upfront payments for training or personal information. Research potential employers thoroughly and be skeptical of positions that seem too good to be true.
7. Fake Charities
Scammers exploit the season's generosity by posing as charitable organizations. Before donating, verify the charity's legitimacy through resources like BBB's Give.org to ensure your contributions reach those in need.
8. Advent Calendar Scams
Be cautious of social media ads selling unique advent calendars at low prices. Victims have reported paying for items that never arrive or are of poor quality. Purchase from reputable retailers to avoid disappointment.
9. Hot Toy Scams
High-demand toys often attract scammers offering them at low prices. These deals may lead to counterfeit products or no delivery at all. Stick to authorized sellers to ensure product authenticity and delivery.
10. Holiday Decoration Scams
Offers for discounted holiday decorations, especially large or elaborate ones, can be deceptive. Consumers have reported paying for items that don't arrive or are substandard. Verify the legitimacy of online stores before purchasing.
11. Package Redirection Scams
Scammers manipulate shipping information to divert deliveries, making it appear as though packages were delivered correctly. Monitor tracking details closely and report discrepancies to carriers immediately.
12. Survey Scams with a Holiday Twist
Be wary of unsolicited survey invitations promising gift cards or prizes. These can be attempts to harvest personal information. Participate only in surveys from known and trusted organizations.
By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from these prevalent holiday scams. Always verify the legitimacy of offers and organizations, and when in doubt, consult resources like the BBB for guidance.
Source: Better Business Bureau