Its the holiday season coming back with too much excitement, filled inboxes and rush. In search for good gifts and a perfect holiday season, everyone is busy preparing. Unfortunately, this is the time when fraudsters have their ears perked up because shoppers are in such a rush. Fake websites, delivery texts, scam calls all of these can cost money and personal information to be breached. Here’s what you need to look out for this season too.
Fake Shopping Websites
Of course, the first one to be mentioned. There are times where in search for good deals, we can get ourselves into some messy situations. These websites look like trustable and popular retailers but they take your payment and the delivery never comes. Check the URL carefully, and if it looks suspicious, do not engage.
Too Good to be True Deals
From personal experience, a stunning formal rhinestone dress for $150. It looked like 65% off discount deal, that’s too good! These are the red flags that scammers use to bait people into buying.
Fake Delivery Texts
A text claiming that your delivery is delayed when you are already ordering a bunch of stuff during preparations is not a weird occurrence. However, when it asks you to pay a small fee or reschedule with an unknown link in it, those are the red flags to be aware about.
Social Media Scam
There are so many accounts that post product pictures and videos displaying their products. It all seems believable with the relatability and trendy aesthetic it provides. It is important to research these sellers as they might contain counterfeit goods or none at all, even if they have awesome reviews posted in their account.
Fake Charity
With holidays, the inspiration to have others enjoy it also comes. As such, when someone comes asking for charity, it feels sentimental to do something about it. However, this is how scammers take advantage of this through calls, emails and social media even. If donation is something you’re interested in, look for official websites rather than random links provided in inbox.
Phishing Mails that are not from Retailers
Once again, these are the mails that might claim that something went off with your delivery. These mails are exactly what you’d expect from a retailer with the order id, tracking link, all provided. However, none of it works and now you can’t get through customer care. Best to check for their address and contact info before buying.
Shopping Safely this Season
While we can’t stop each scammer, we can stay aware and implement caution to avoid getting scammed. Using credits for their better fraud protection benefits. Set up strong passwords and transaction alert and avoid shopping on public wifi. Furthermore, it is important to understand that when something as such occurs, slow down and give yourself time.
