The holiday season, often synonymous with joy and goodwill, also serves as a prime opportunity for cybercriminals to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. While families gather and festivities unfold, scammers ramp up their efforts, creating schemes as varied as the gifts being exchanged. A 2024 report from the AARP Fraud Watch Network reveals that over 80 percent of U.S. consumers have encountered holiday-related fraud, ranging from fake charities to deceptive shopping deals. The spirit of giving, it seems, has become a lucrative time for cybercrime.
One of the newer tricks involves the “card declined” scam. Shoppers making online purchases might receive a fraudulent message claiming their card was declined, even though the payment has already gone through. This ploy aims to trick individuals into entering another card, allowing scammers to double-charge victims and collect additional financial information. To avoid falling prey, consumers are urged to verify transactions through their bank or credit card provider before taking further action. A little skepticism can go a long way in sidestepping this sneaky tactic.
Online shopping scams, a holiday mainstay for fraudsters, continue to ensnare unwary buyers. Fake websites and social media ads mimic well-known brands, promising steep discounts on popular items that never arrive. Social media, in particular, has become a hotbed for such deceptions, as most ads are not rigorously vetted. Shoppers should verify that links lead to legitimate websites and remember the golden rule: if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Falling for these schemes can turn a planned gift into an expensive disappointment.
Gift card scams remain a perennial favorite among criminals, exploiting the convenience and popularity of these easy-to-purchase presents. Scammers often swipe card information from racks, draining the balance as soon as the cards are activated. To avoid this pitfall, consumers are advised to buy gift cards directly from store clerks or reputable online retailers. Steer clear of cards displayed openly on racks, as they are the most vulnerable to tampering and fraud.
Delivery and travel scams round out the list of seasonal threats. Phishing emails and texts masquerading as shipping updates from carriers like FedEx or USPS lure victims into providing personal information or installing malware. Similarly, fraudulent travel deals and fake websites posing as airlines or hotels coax people into sharing sensitive details. Whether tracking a package or booking a trip, it pays to be cautious. Avoid clicking on unexpected links and verify the legitimacy of any communication before taking action.
While the holidays bring out the best in many, they also attract the worst in some. Cybercriminals use the season’s busyness and generosity to their advantage, but staying informed and alert can help consumers avoid their traps. With a little vigilance, the focus can remain on celebrating with loved ones and enjoying the spirit of the season, rather than dealing with the fallout of a scam.
