Holiday Shopping Scams: Expert Tips to Avoid Becoming a Victim

Recognizing Holiday Scam Tactics

• ⚠️ Experts advise shoppers to slow down and be wary if rushed to complete a purchase or send money.
• 💡 Legitimate deals often last the entire Black Friday to Cyber Monday weekend, so there's no need to rush.
• 💰 If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is; question if the deal makes sense before proceeding.
• 🚩 Be suspicious of surprisingly low prices on coupons or gift cards, and avoid pressure to send money quickly.

Common Scam Motivations

• ⚡ Scammers exploit year-end pressure, urging victims to donate fast, invest fast, and trust fast.
• 📧 Legitimate brands and vendors typically do not solicit customers for consumption; be cautious if approached directly.

Who Falls Victim to Scams?

• 🧠 It's a misconception that only the elderly are targeted; all ages can fall victim.
• 📈 One in three people aged 25-30 are targeted, with a significant portion falling victim.
• 💸 A notable spike is seen in crypto scams, where illegitimate token or cryptocurrency purchases are made.

Protecting Yourself from Scams

• 🔍 Keep your eyes peeled and verify that emails, texts, and messages come from legitimate sources.
• 📞 If you suspect a call is from a scammer, hang up and call back using a known legitimate number.
• 💳 While chargebacks on credit cards are possible if scammed, prevention is the most effective strategy.