By Adriano Mesina
The holiday season brings joy and togetherness, but it also creates a prime opportunity for cybercriminals. As you shop for the perfect gifts for loved ones, scammers are busy crafting fake emails, websites, and links to steal your information. From phishing attacks to malware traps, their tactics aim to catch you off guard when you least expect it.
Holiday shopping events are particularly rife with scams, with nearly half of online shoppers falling victim each year. To ensure your holidays remain cheerful and secure, it’s essential to recognize the most common cyber scams and know how to defend against them.
This guide will outline the 12 most prevalent holiday scams and how you can outsmart cybercriminals, allowing you to focus on the season’s true meaning.
The Top 12 Holiday Cyber Scams to Watch Out For
Cybercriminals employ a variety of deceptive tactics to trick unsuspecting shoppers into sharing sensitive information or money. Below are the most common scams to be wary of during the holiday season:
1. Phishing Emails
Phishing remains one of the most prevalent holiday scams. While legitimate businesses send emails promoting holiday deals, scammers often disguise their phishing emails to mimic these promotions. They’ll entice you with discounts on fake products, directing you to fraudulent websites designed to steal your login credentials or payment details.
Some phishing emails also contain malicious attachments that can install malware on your device. These programs may collect your personal data or even lock your device until you pay a ransom. Always scrutinize emails for spelling errors, generic greetings, and suspicious links.
2. Fake Social Media Ads
Social media platforms are a favorite hunting ground for scammers, particularly during the holidays. Fraudsters create fake accounts and advertise “too good to be true” deals on popular products. Once you click on these ads, you may be redirected to a counterfeit online store.
After entering your payment details, you won’t receive the product—instead, your financial information will likely be used for fraudulent purchases. Stick to verified retailers and avoid deals that seem suspiciously cheap.
3. Phony Shipping Notifications
As online orders increase during the holidays, so do shipping notification scams. Cybercriminals pose as delivery services like LBC sending messages that claim there’s an issue with your shipment. The email or text message typically includes a link to “reschedule” delivery.
These links often lead to phishing websites or malware downloads designed to capture your personal information. Verify shipping updates by logging into the official website of the courier service rather than clicking on unsolicited links.
4. Fake Charities and Disaster Relief Scams
Scammers prey on holiday generosity by creating fake charities or disaster relief campaigns. You might see posts on social media or receive emails urging you to donate to those in need. However, these fraudulent campaigns are designed to steal your money and personal details.
To avoid falling victim, only donate through well-known and verified charitable organizations. Research the charity on trusted websites before making a contribution.
5. Counterfeit E-Commerce Sites
Fraudulent e-commerce websites pose as legitimate online stores, offering popular products at unbeatable prices. These fake sites are often optimized for search engines, making them appear legitimate.
When shoppers enter their payment information, scammers collect these details for later misuse. Before purchasing from an unfamiliar website, look for trust signals such as a secure URL (beginning with “https”), customer reviews, and clear contact information.
6. Gift Card Scams
Gift cards are a popular holiday item, and scammers exploit this trend with fake giveaways. Victims may receive an email claiming they have won a gift card, but to redeem it, they must provide personal information or pay a small fee.
Remember that legitimate companies won’t ask for payment or sensitive details to issue a gift card. Always double-check the sender’s authenticity.
7. Travel Deal Scams
Holiday travel is another target for scammers. Fraudulent websites and emails advertise heavily discounted vacation packages, flights, or accommodations to lure victims. Once you’ve paid, the scammer vanishes, leaving you without a booking or your money.
Stick to well-known travel platforms and verify deals directly with airlines or hotels before making reservations.
8. Fake E-Cards
Digital greeting cards are a holiday tradition, but scammers have found a way to exploit them. They send fake e-cards embedded with malware or links to phishing sites.
Before opening an e-card, verify the sender’s identity. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
9. Public Wi-Fi Risks
Many people shop online while on the go, but connecting to public Wi-Fi networks during the holidays can expose you to cyberattacks. Hackers can create rogue Wi-Fi networks in crowded places, such as malls or airports, to intercept sensitive information.
To stay safe, avoid entering personal or payment details when using public Wi-Fi. If necessary, use a VPN to secure your connection.
10. Tech Support Scams
During the holiday season, scammers posing as tech support agents become more active. They may contact you claiming there’s an issue with your device and request remote access to fix it. Some even ask for payment for unnecessary services.
Legitimate tech support companies won’t contact you unsolicited. If you encounter this type of scam, disconnect and report the incident.
11. Package Theft Scams
Scammers exploit the high volume of holiday deliveries with package theft schemes. They send fake notifications claiming a delivery attempt failed and instruct recipients to click a link or provide personal information to reschedule.
If you receive such a message, verify it directly with the courier’s official website or customer service line.
12. Fraudulent Job Offers
The holiday season often sees an increase in temporary job postings, and scammers take advantage by creating fake opportunities. They pose as recruiters, asking for sensitive details like your Social Security number or even payment for training materials.
Always research job offers and communicate directly with companies through their official channels to confirm legitimacy.
How to Stay Safe This Holiday Season
With the rise of online shopping and digital communication, holiday cyber scams are becoming more sophisticated. Awareness and vigilance are your best defenses. Verify the authenticity of emails, websites, and offers before providing sensitive information. Use secure connections, keep your software updated, and enable multi-factor authentication on important accounts.
By staying informed about these scams and adopting safe online habits, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday season focused on what truly matters: celebrating with your loved ones. Stay safe, and happy holidays!