Scam Watch: Don’t Let the Grinch Hack Your Holidays
In the immortal words of Mariah Carey, “IT’S TIIIME!” That’s right, the holidays are here, and you know what that means: it’s the Holly Jolly Holiday Scams season. Now is the peak time when scammers begin preying on unsuspecting consumers. While you’re busy sipping on a nice cup of hot chocolate, scrolling through a retail website and happily clicking away, wicked elves are plotting to turn your festive vibe into financial fear.
Let’s unwrap the most common holiday scams and real-life examples so you can avoid getting cyber-snowed.
Scam #1: The “Too-Good-To-Be-True” Deal
You see an ad on DysonClearanceSale.biz for a $649 Dyson Airwrap on sale for the incredible price of $49.99. What a deal! You click. You pay. You get…nothing. Or worse, you receive a knockoff that looks like it was built by elves on strike. Nothing can get your tinsel in a tangle faster than falling for this scam.
Real-life example:
In late 2024, scammers flooded social media with fake ads for viral products like Stanley tumblers and electric scooters. Many used stolen branding and logos to look legit, but victims either received counterfeit goods or nothing at all.
Keep the jingle in your wallet:
- Stick to trusted retailersÂ
- Look for HTTPS and legit domain (website) namesÂ
- A $649Â product for $49.99? Take a beat before you clickÂ
Scam #2: Fake Shipping Notifications
“Your package is delayed. Click here to reschedule.” You click. Malware installs faster than you can say “tracking number.”
Real-life example:
USPS warns of a surge in “smishing” scams. These are texts claiming a package can’t be delivered unless you pay a fee or update your address. Clicking the link takes you to a phishing site that steals personal info. It’s Ho Ho Ho Horrible.
Stay off the naughty list:
- Don’t click links in unsolicited texts or emailsÂ
- Track packages through official apps or websitesÂ
- If it’s urgent and weird, it’s probably fakeÂ
Scam #3: The “Fake Relative” Emergency
You get a call from your cousin, Jim. He’s stranded, broke, and needs money now or he won’t make it to Grandma’s in time for Christmas Eve caroling. You Venmo $500. But wait, didn’t your mom say Jim wasn’t coming this year? Later, the real Jim texts: “Hey, just landed in Cabo!” Now, not only has your favorite cousin chosen to go to Cabo over hanging out with the family, but you’re out 500 bucks!
Real-life example:
Scammers are using AI voice cloning to impersonate loved ones. In 2024, thousands were duped by fake calls from “family members” in distress, asking for urgent money transfers. And if you think you couldn’t be fooled by an AI voice, think again. AI can sound more authentic than you when you say “thank you, I love it” after receiving yet another ugly sweater from your Aunt Mary.
Just like Santa’s list, check it twice:
- Set up a family “safe word”Â
- Check with another relativeÂ
- Never send money without confirming identityÂ
Scam #4: Charity Cons
‘Tis the season for giving, and scammers know it. They create fake charities with heart-wrenching stories and slick websites to tug at your heartstrings (and wallet).
Real-life example:
Scammers are using social media ads and spoofed websites to impersonate disaster relief funds and children’s charities. Many retirees are targeted with emotional appeals and have lost thousands.
Make sure the only thing getting stuffed is the turkey:
- Use sites like Charity Navigator to verify legitimacyÂ
- Don’t donate via phone or sketchy linksÂ
- Real charities won’t pressure you to give right nowÂ
- Talk to your elderly parents and warn them of charity scammersÂ
Scam #5: Fake E-Commerce Sites
You find a site selling PlayStations for half price. The site appears legitimate, so you order. And you wait. Finally, you get a confirmation email, but it’s not to be. In a twinkling, you’re out of luck.
Real-life example:
In 2025, scammers launched thousands of fake online stores using AI to mimic real brands. Victims lost money and had their credit card info stolen. It’s enough to make you say, “Bah Humbug!”
Don’t let fraud snowball:
- Check reviews and the domain to see how long the website has been aroundÂ
- Check the URL using Google’s safe browsing toolÂ
- Pay with credit cards for better fraud protectionÂ
Cybersecurity Tips to Sleigh the Season
Even if you dodge the scams, don’t forget to lock down your digital sleigh:
- Update Your DevicesÂ
Yes, even your smart toaster. Updates patch security holes that hackers love.
- Use Strong PasswordsÂ
“Santa123” isn’t cutting it. Use a password manager and go for long, weird combos.
- Beware of Public Wi-FiÂ
Shopping at the café? Use a VPN or wait until you’re home. Hackers love free Wi-Fi more than you love free shipping.
- Monitor Your AccountsÂ
Check your bank and credit card statements regularly. If you see a charge from “ElfTech Solutions,” it’s time to call us.
The holidays should be about joy, not fraud. Stay sharp, trust your gut, and don’t let scammers steal your sparkle. You’ve got enough to worry about, like whether your Secret Santa gift screams “Bought 10 minutes ago.”
Need a little help keeping your finances wrapped up tightly like the holiday gifts you’re giving? RVCU members get free financial coaching! Book your appointment today and enjoy a holiday that is joyful and scam-free.