Avoid Holiday Shopping Scams: Tips to Protect Your Wallet

(3 Minute Read) — The holiday season is here—a time for gift-giving, joy, and connection. But for scammers, it’s also a prime time to take advantage of last-minute shoppers. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), holiday-related scams are on the rise, with shoppers falling victim to counterfeit products, phishing schemes, and bogus “too-good-to-be-true” deals. 

At Unitus Community Credit Union, we want to ensure that our members enjoy the holidays without unnecessary financial stress. By staying informed and cautious, you can safeguard your hard-earned money while finishing your shopping. Here’s how to spot rip-offs and protect yourself during this busy season. 

1. Be Wary of Deep Discounts on Unknown Websites 

Scammers often set up fake online stores that offer massive discounts on popular items to lure in last-minute shoppers. These sites may steal your payment information or deliver counterfeit goods—or nothing at all. 

How to stay safe: 

• Stick to reputable retailers: Purchase from well-known websites or stores with positive reviews. 
• Look for secure websites: Always check for “https” in the URL and a padlock icon in the browser. 
• Research unfamiliar stores: If you discover a new retailer, look up reviews or complaints before making a purchase. 

2. Watch Out for Phishing Scams in Emails and Texts 

You may receive emails or texts offering exclusive deals or urgent warnings about your accounts. Scammers use these tactics to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card numbers. 

How to stay safe: 

• Don’t click on suspicious links: Instead, go directly to the retailer’s official website by typing the URL into your browser. 
• Verify sender information: Legitimate companies won’t ask for sensitive information over email or text. 
• Enable alerts: Set up fraud alerts through Unitus Digital Banking to monitor your accounts for unusual activity. 

3. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Online Shopping 

Shopping online from a coffee shop or airport might seem convenient, but public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously insecure. Hackers can intercept your data, including passwords and payment details. 

How to stay safe: 

• Use your mobile network: If you need to shop on the go, switch to your phone’s data connection. 
• Install a VPN: Virtual Private Networks encrypt your online activity, adding an extra layer of security. 
• Shop at home: When possible, make online purchases from a secure, private network. 

Bonus Tip: Monitor Your Accounts Closely 

Scammers are crafty, so even the most cautious shoppers can be targeted. To stay ahead of fraud: 

• Check your accounts regularly: Log in to your Unitus Digital Banking or mobile app to review recent transactions. 
• Report suspicious activity immediately: If you notice unauthorized charges, contact us right away. 
• Leverage our tools: Set up transaction alerts to receive real-time updates on your spending. 

Stay Vigilant and Shop Smart 

At Unitus, we’re here to help you navigate the season’s financial challenges with confidence. By following these tips, you can focus on spreading joy while keeping your finances safe. 

If you’re looking for additional resources, explore our financial wellness tools or contact us with any questions. Let’s make this holiday season memorable—for all the right reasons. 

Happy Holidays from your friends at Unitus Community Credit Union!