How to Stay Scam-Free This Holiday Season

Learn how to gather your family for a holiday chat to stay one step ahead of scammers!

Family at dinner table

The holiday season is a time for fun, family, and giving. But while we’re enjoying the holidays, scammers are out there looking to take advantage of our busy schedules. It’s important to have a talk with your family about how to stay safe from holiday scams. During the holidays, we’re often busy shopping, traveling, and spending time with loved ones. This can make it easier for scammers to trick us because we may not be paying attention.

How to Avoid Holiday Scams

Here are some scams you should know about and how to avoid them:

  • Online Bargain Scam: Holiday sales can seem like a steal but be careful! Some websites are fake and offer deals that are too good to be true. Always shop on trusted sites and avoid clicking on random links.
  • Package Scam: If you’re ordering gifts online, scammers might send fake messages saying your package is delayed or needs more information. Always track your packages directly on the store’s website.
  • Fake Charity Scam: Many people want to donate during the holidays, but scammers can make fake charities to steal your money. Check that a charity is real before giving.
  • Family Crisis Scam: Scammers might pretend to be a family member who’s in trouble, saying they need money right away. Always double-check by calling the person directly before sending any money.

Tips to Prevent Fraud During Family Gatherings

Holiday gatherings are a great time to talk with your family about scams. Here are some conversation starters:

  • Share Stories: If someone in your family has been scammed, sharing that story can help others know what to watch out for.
  • Talk About New Scams: Scams change all the time. Make sure everyone knows about new scams, like common scams targeting grandparents or scammers asking for gift cards or wire transfers.
  • Make a Family Plan: Work together to make a plan for handling suspicious messages. For example, agree not to share personal information without verifying who is asking for it. Also, make it a habit to check your bank accounts regularly.
  • Remember the "We Don’t Ask That" Rule: Teach your family that real companies and banks will never ask for personal information, like your Social Security number or passwords, through email, text, or phone calls.

Stay Safe Together

Scammers want people to act alone. By talking with your family and staying informed, you can protect each other. Let’s keep the holidays full of joy and free from scams! Happy holidays!

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.