Beware of These Scams This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time most of us look forward to each year. It brings together family traditions, togetherness, travel, gift-giving, and a welcome break in routine. Unfortunately, it also brings something far less joyful — a surge in scams. Fraudsters count on the fact that people are busy, distracted, and spending more money than usual. They also know that emotions run high during the holidays, which makes it easier to catch people off guard. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission reported that consumers lost more than $12 billion to fraud in 2024, a 25% increase over the prior year.

As losses continue to rise, so does the sophistication of the schemes behind them. Scammers are using technology in ways that were barely on the radar a few years ago. While these evolving threats can seem intimidating, a little awareness goes a long way. By understanding what to look for and how to protect yourself, you can help keep your finances and personal information secure throughout the season.

The 2025 Scam Landscape

One of the biggest changes this year is the increased use of AI-generated content in scams. Fraudsters can now create convincing emails, text messages, and even voice clips that sound as if they came from a trusted friend or family member. These impersonation attempts are often tied to urgent requests for money, such as “I lost my wallet while traveling” or “I need help covering an emergency expense.”

Fake retail websites have also become more realistic. Many appear after a shopper clicks a social media ad promoting a limited-time holiday deal. The sites may look professional, display real product images, and even offer customer service chat features. Once payment is made, the product never arrives.

Peer-to-peer payment apps have become another target. Apps like Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App are convenient, but they lack the protections offered by credit cards. Once a payment is sent, it’s usually final. Scammers know this and have developed new tactics to pressure or trick users into sending funds.

Delivery-related scams are also on the rise. With more people ordering online, scammers send fake tracking updates that lead to malware or phishing websites. Because legitimate tracking texts are common, these fake alerts can be easy to mistake for the real thing.

Common Holiday Scams to Watch For

1. Fake Retail Deals and Marketplace Listings

The promise of the perfect gift at a deep discount is hard to resist. Scammers create websites and marketplace listings that look legitimate on the surface. Poor return policies, unfamiliar merchant names, and prices far below retail are red flags. If something feels off, trust your instincts.

2. Charity Scams

Many people choose to give back during the holidays, which is why scammers pose as charities or create fake organizations that sound similar to well-known nonprofits. A common tactic involves calling or emailing potential donors with urgent requests for end-of-year contributions. Before donating, verify that the organization is a real 501(c)(3) and confirm its website, address, and tax ID.

3. Impersonation Scams Using Cloned Voices

With improved voice-cloning technology, scammers can now generate short, realistic clips that mimic someone’s voice. This makes the classic “grandparent scam” far more convincing. Always pause and verify the caller’s identity before sending money. A quick call to a known number can prevent a costly mistake.

4. Package Tracking and Delivery Phishing

Scammers send texts or emails claiming that a package is delayed or requires updated information. Clicking the link may install malware or take you to a website designed to capture your personal data. Instead of clicking, go directly to the retailer’s website or the delivery company’s official tracking page.

5. Gift Card and Payment-App Scams

Legitimate businesses and government agencies will not ask for payment through gift cards or peer-to-peer apps. If someone pressures you to pay immediately using these methods, it is almost certainly a scam.

6. Travel and Rental Scams

As families travel for the holidays, scammers take advantage of the demand for short-term rentals and last-minute flight deals. Fake rental listings often use stolen photos and unrealistic pricing. Before booking, confirm the property exists, read multiple reviews, and use trusted travel platforms.

Smart Ways to Protect Yourself

Verify Before You Click

Avoid clicking on unsolicited links. If you see a deal in a social media ad, type the retailer’s website directly into your browser instead of following the link. Look for secure website features like HTTPS, clear contact information, and transparent return policies.

Strengthen Digital Security

Two-factor authentication remains one of the best ways to protect your accounts. Use unique passwords, update them regularly, and avoid logging into financial accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.

Protect Personal Information

Scammers often gather details about potential targets from social media. Consider limiting posts that share travel plans, gift purchases, or family details. If an email or message asks for personal or financial information, verify the request through a known phone number or official website.

Confirm Charity Legitimacy

Resources like Charity Navigator and state nonprofit registries can help verify whether an organization is legitimate. If you receive a call asking for a donation, you can always say you prefer to donate directly through the charity’s official website.

Choose Secure Payment Methods

Credit cards offer strong protections and allow you to dispute fraudulent charges. When dealing with unfamiliar sellers or services, avoid payment methods that cannot be reversed.

What To Do If You Suspect Fraud

If you believe you’ve clicked a suspicious link or shared information with someone you shouldn’t have, act quickly. Change your passwords, alert your financial institutions, and monitor your accounts for unusual activity. Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission or your state’s consumer protection office. The sooner you take action, the easier it is to limit the damage.

How Your Advisor Can Help

Your financial advisor can be an important partner in fraud prevention. Whether it’s discussing steps to protect your accounts, reviewing suspicious communications, or helping guide a family member who may be vulnerable to scams, a trusted professional can offer meaningful support. If you have concerns about something you’ve received or experienced, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Final Thoughts

The holidays should be a time of connection and celebration. With a bit of caution and awareness, you can keep the season focused on the moments that matter most. Staying alert to the year’s most common scams is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you ever have questions about financial security or want help reviewing something that doesn’t feel quite right, I’m here to help.

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