Stay Alert to Scams: Key Tips for the New Year

Top Post-Holiday Fraud Schemes to Watch for:

1. Phishing and Social Engineering
Scammers pretend to be trusted organizations via emails, texts, or phone calls to steal sensitive information. Common scams include:

• Email Phishing: Fake deals or package delivery notices.
• Smishing (Text Phishing): Fraudulent “financial problem” alerts.
• Seasonal Job Scams: Fake listings to collect personal details or payments.

     Tips to Avoid Phishing Scams:

• Don’t click on unsolicited links.
• Verify sender information and avoid sharing one-time passcodes.
• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security.

2. Scam Merchants
Fake online stores lure victims with heavily discounted items. These sites steal payment information or fail to deliver orders.

     How to Spot Fake Stores:

• Look for “https” in URLs and check for misspellings.
• Avoid wire transfers or payments via cryptocurrency.
• Enable purchase alerts to track activity on your card.

3. Travel Scams
Fraudsters create fake travel sites or advertise non-existent holiday rentals. Scams also include fake flight cancellation emails asking for payment details.

     Stay Safe When Booking Travel:

• Research travel companies and verify rental listings.
• Book directly through official platforms, not via social media ads.
• Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

4. Physical Theft
Crowded malls and ATMs are prime targets for pickpockets and skimming devices. Scammers also use mobile point-of-sale devices to steal funds through contactless transactions.

     Prevent Physical Theft:

• Keep wallets and purses secure.
• Check for suspicious devices at ATMs or card readers.
• Report lost cards immediately and monitor for suspicious transactions.

Final Tips to Stay Fraud-Free

• Regularly review your bank statements for anomalies.
• Research charities before donating.
• Talk to someone you trust if you suspect a scam.

Though the holidays may be over, scams continue throughout the year. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from fraud and enjoy a safe and secure 2025.