6 Holiday Shopping Scams to Watch Out For

To help you stay safe, here’s a look at six common scams you might encounter this season and how to avoid them.

The Holiday Season Is Prime Time for Shopping Scams

What should be a joyful holiday shopping season has become a risky time for consumers, thanks to cybercriminals. In 2023, shopping scams ranked as the second most common type of scam in the U.S., according to the Federal Trade Commission. Fraudulent activity peaks during the holidays, with TransUnion’s Global Digital Fraud Trends report revealing a staggering 127% surge in daily fraud attempts from November 24 to 28 compared to earlier in the year.

The sheer volume of online shopping during this time makes it easy for scammers to find victims. However, it’s not just the increase in activity that creates opportunities, it’s also the behavior of shoppers. Norton’s 2022 Cyber Safety Insights Report found that nearly one in three people globally (32%) admitted to taking more risks with online shopping as the holidays approached. Last-minute shopping stress and the excitement of big discounts often lead to careless mistakes like clicking on suspicious links, shopping on public insecure WiFi, or ignoring warning signs about website security.

Scammers know that holiday shoppers are more likely to let their guard down, and they use well-tested tactics to exploit these vulnerabilities. By staying aware of common schemes and taking precautions, you can protect yourself from falling victim to fraud this holiday season.

6 Holiday Shopping Scams to Be Aware of as We Enter Black Friday and Cyber Monday

1. Account Verification Scams

These scams involve emails or texts asking you to verify your account information by clicking a link. The link leads to a fake login page designed to steal your credentials.

How to avoid it:

• Always log in directly to your account via the retailer’s official website.

• Never share personal or login details through unsolicited messages.

2. Fake Coupons

Too-good-to-be-true coupons promising massive discounts circulate via email, social media, and fake websites designed to imitate trusted retailers.

How to avoid it:

• Verify coupons through the retailer’s official website or app.

• Avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or social media posts.

• Be wary of QR codes. Scanning a bad QR code is equivalent to clicking a malicious link.

3. Fake “Order Issue” E-Mails

These phishing emails claim there is a problem with your order and ask for personal information to resolve it. They often mimic well-known retailers to gain your trust.

How to avoid it:

• Contact the retailer directly through their official website or app if you receive such messages.

• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails, and never provide sensitive information unless you’ve verified the request.

4. Fake Delivery Notifications

Scammers send fake messages claiming a package couldn’t be delivered, prompting you to click a link or provide personal details to resolve the issue.

How to avoid it:

• Track your packages only through the retailer’s website or app.

• Be cautious of unsolicited delivery messages and never click on suspicious links.

5. Gift Card Scams

Gift cards are a favorite target for scammers. Fraudsters may offer steep discounts on gift cards or demand payment via gift cards, leaving you with a drained balance or no product at all.

How to avoid it:

• Only purchase gift cards directly from reputable retailers.

• Never send gift card details to unknown individuals or use as payment for goods or services.

6. Fake Websites

Scammers create fake online stores that look nearly identical to legitimate retailers. They use similar logos, branding, and URLs with minor misspellings to trick shoppers into entering payment details or personal information.

How to avoid it:

• Always verify the website’s URL for unusual characters or misspellings.

• Check for secure indicators like HTTPS and a padlock icon in the address bar.

• Read reviews or search the retailer’s legitimacy before making a purchase.

Stay Safe While Shopping This Holiday Season

Nothing dampens the joy of holiday shopping quite like discovering unexpected charges on your credit card or waiting for gifts that never arrive. Cybercriminals capitalize on the holiday shopping rush and consumers’ tendency to let their guard down in the excitement of finding deals. But by taking a moment to verify sources, ensuring website security, and steering clear of unsolicited links, you can protect yourself and keep the holiday spirit alive.

Enjoy a safer and more joyful shopping experience this season!

Teknologize is a SOC 2 Accredited, Professional Technology Services company with clients throughout the Pacific Northwest. We have offices located in:

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