After 25 years in banking, I’ve learned something about scammers: they’re very good at catching people when they’re distracted. And what better time to do that than the holidays?
We’re shopping, traveling, ordering packages, donating to charities and trying to get everything done before Christmas.
That’s exactly when a text saying “Your package could not be delivered” can catch you off guard.
Here are seven scams I wish everyone would recognize before clicking “buy,” “pay” or “reply.”
1. The Package Delivery Text
A text says your package couldn’t be delivered, your address is incorrect or you owe a small delivery fee. There’s a link to “fix” the problem. Don’t click it. Go directly to the retailer or shipping company’s official website or app and check the tracking information yourself.
2. The Fake Customer Service Number
Need help with an order? Be careful searching for a customer service number online. Scammers create fake websites and listings with phone numbers that look legitimate. Use the company’s official website or app—or the number printed on your card or statement.
3. The “Your Account Has Been Compromised” Call
Someone calls claiming to be from your bank or credit card company and says there’s suspicious activity. They may sound professional and even know some information about you. Then they ask for a verification code, PIN or password. Stop. Hang up and call your financial institution directly using a trusted number.
4. The Fake Charity
The holidays bring out our generosity, and scammers know it. Be cautious with unsolicited requests for donations through texts, emails or social media. If you want to give, go directly to the organization’s official website. Be especially suspicious if you’re pressured to donate immediately.
5. The Too-Good-to-Be-True Deal
That hard-to-find toy, concert ticket or popular gift at an unbelievable price may be exactly that—unbelievable. Scammers create fake listings using legitimate photos and pressure buyers to pay quickly. Be cautious with sellers who insist on gift cards, wire transfers or unusual payment methods.
6. The Payment-App Scam
Someone says you accidentally received money and need to send it back. Or a message appears to come from a friend or family member asking for money urgently. Don’t let someone else’s urgency become your emergency. Call the person directly using a number you already have.
7. The Gift Card Scam
No legitimate business, government agency or financial institution will demand payment in gift cards. If someone asks you to buy cards and provide the numbers or PINs, stop. The Best Fraud Tool You Have? A Pause. Scammers don’t necessarily need to outsmart you. They just need to get you to react before you think.
So, this holiday season, pause before you click, pay or provide information. Did I initiate this conversation? Can I verify it independently? Why am I being pressured to act right now? If you’re not sure, stop and verify. Five extra minutes could save you a lot more than five minutes’ worth of trouble.
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