How to Protect Yourself from Holiday Scams This 2025 Season
The holiday season is a time for joy, generosity, and celebration. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to take advantage of the hustle and bustle. From fake online deals to phishing emails, fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to trick unsuspecting shoppers. But don’t worry—by staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Here are some practical tips to help you avoid holiday scams this year.
1. Shop Smart Online
Online shopping is convenient, but it’s also a playground for scammers. Fake websites and too-good-to-be-true deals are common traps.
How to Stay Safe:
- Stick to trusted retailers: Only shop on websites you know and trust. Look for “https://” and a lock icon in the browser bar.
- Double-check URLs: Scammers often create fake websites with slight misspellings of popular brands. For example, “Amaz0n.com” instead of “Amazon.com.”
- Avoid clicking on unsolicited links: If you receive an email or text with a shopping link, do not click the link. Instead, open a browser and go directly to the retailer’s website.
2. Beware of Fake QR Codes
QR codes are everywhere, from restaurant menus to advertisements. Unfortunately, scammers use fake QR codes to direct you to malicious websites or install viruses on your device.
How to Stay Safe:
- Scan only trusted codes: Avoid scanning QR codes from unsolicited messages or unknown sources.
- Preview the URL: Use your phone’s built-in features to preview the link before opening it.
- Verify the source: If a QR code is on a flyer or poster, ensure it’s from a reputable organization.
3. Watch Out for Phishing Emails and Texts
Scammers often impersonate well-known companies like Amazon, FedEx, or UPS, claiming there’s an issue with your order or delivery.
How to Stay Safe:
- Don’t click on links: Go directly to the company’s official website to check your order status.
- Verify the sender: Look for misspellings or unusual email addresses.
4. Be Cautious with Charitable Donations
The holidays inspire generosity, but scammers exploit this by creating fake charities.
How to Stay Safe:
- Research charities: Use websites like Charity Navigator or Give.org to verify organizations.
- Avoid unsolicited requests: Donate directly through the charity’s official website rather than through links in emails or social media.
5. Protect Yourself from Job Scams
Seasonal job opportunities are abundant, but so are fake job postings.
How to Stay Safe:
- Apply through official channels: Use the company’s official website or trusted job boards.
- Don’t pay upfront: Legitimate employers will never ask for money for training or supplies.
- Guard your personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive details like your Social Security number until you’ve verified the job’s legitimacy.
- Watch for signs: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers more advice on spotting job scams.
6. Stay Vigilant While Traveling
Travel scams, such as fake vacation rentals or fraudulent booking sites, are common during the holidays.
How to Stay Safe:
- Book through reputable platforms: Stick to well-known travel websites and read reviews.
- Verify rental listings: Contact the property owner directly and confirm details before making payments.
- Use secure payment methods: Avoid wire transfers or prepaid debit cards.
7. Leverage NDTC’s Security and Connectivity Solutions
Staying safe during the holiday season isn’t just about vigilance—it’s also about having the right tools to protect yourself and your family. NDTC offers a variety of services designed to enhance your security and keep you connected.
How NDTC Can Help:
- Managed Wi-Fi & CommandIQ App: NDTC’s Managed Wi-Fi service and free CommandIQ mobile app help ensure a secure and reliable internet connection, with professional installation and 24/7 support to keep your network safe from potential threats.
- Surveillance Cameras: Monitor your home or business with NDTC’s surveillance systems, which provide crystal-clear video and remote access through a mobile app, giving you peace of mind wherever you are.
- Junk Email Filtering: Protect your inbox from phishing attempts and spam with NDTC’s email filtering services, ensuring you only see legitimate messages.
- Cybersecurity Resources: NDTC offers educational resources and tools to help you understand and avoid online scams, keeping your personal information secure. Search our website and blog posts, and stay up-to-date on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
By integrating these solutions into your daily life, you can enjoy the holiday season with confidence, knowing that NDTC has your back.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
Even the most cautious individuals can fall victim to scams. If you suspect you’ve been scammed:
- Stop communication with the scammer immediately.
- Report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Contact your bank to freeze accounts or dispute charges.
- Change your passwords for any compromised accounts.
- Report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov.
The holiday season should be a time of joy, not stress. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from scams and enjoy the festivities with peace of mind. Share these tips with your friends and family to help them stay safe too.
Happy holidays, and stay safe online and beyond!