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Top Tips to Avoid Holiday Scams

The holiday season is a time of joy, cheer, and unfortunately, increased opportunities for scammers. As online shopping and digital payments become more prevalent, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and protect your hard-earned money. Here are some top tips to help you avoid holiday scams and safeguard your finances:

1. Be Wary of Phishing Emails, Texts, and Phone Calls

  • Don’t Share Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security numbers through email or text messages.
  • Don’t share 2-factor authentication codes: This added layer of security for online banking and other sensitive sites should never be shared with anyone.
  • Verify Sender Addresses: Double-check the sender’s email address and phone number for any typos or suspicious domains.
  • Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking.

2. Monitor Your Accounts Closely

  • Review Your Account and Credit Card Statements: Regularly review your account and credit card statements for any unauthorized charges.
  • Set Up Alerts: Enable digital banking alerts for account activity, such as login attempts and large purchases.
  • Report Suspicious Activity Immediately: If you notice any suspicious activity, contact us immediately.

3. Beware of Shipping Scams

  • Track Your Packages: Use reliable tracking services to monitor your deliveries.
  • Be Skeptical of Unexpected Notifications: Be cautious of unsolicited emails or text messages about shipping delays or delivery issues.

4. Use Caution if Anyone Asks You to Purchase Gift Cards

  • Pause before acting: No legitimate organization, individual, or entity is going to instruct you to buy gift cards for any reason.
  • Know who you are dealing with: Do not send money or cash equivalent (gift cards, peer to peer transfers such as Zelle, CashApp, Venmo) to anyone you do not know.

5. Shop from Reputable Retailers

  • Stick to Familiar Sites: Choose well-known, trusted online retailers.
  • Check for Security Symbols: Look for signs like a padlock in the browser bar and “https” in the website address.
  • Beware of Phishing Emails: Be cautious of emails claiming to be from retailers with urgent requests or suspicious links.

6. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

  • Create Strong Passwords: Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Avoid Reusing Passwords: Use different passwords for each online account.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.

7. Be Wary of Social Media Deals

  • Verify Offers: Double-check deals on social media platforms with the retailer’s official website.
  • Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Be cautious of links that promise unrealistic discounts or free gifts.

8. Be Cautious of Charity Scams

  • Research Charities: Verify the legitimacy of charities before donating.
  • Donate Directly: Consider donating directly to reputable organizations rather than through third-party websites.

9. Protect Your Social Media Privacy

  • Limit Information Sharing: Be mindful of the personal information you share on social media.
  • Adjust Privacy Settings: Review and tighten your privacy settings to restrict who can see your posts.
  • Be Cautious of Friend Requests: Avoid accepting friend requests from strangers.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and secure holiday shopping experience. Remember, Trailhead Credit Union will never contact you and ask you to initiate transactions, participate in an investigation, or ask for your digital banking credentials. Bad actors are targeting credit union members across the country claiming to be with their credit union. If you are suspicious of a call, hang up and call us back directly at 503-220-2592.