Christmas Scams to Avoid This Year
People are particularly vulnerable to scams during the holidays - often, because we’re mired deeply in the giving spirit. Let’s be vigilant and help each other avoid fraud. Here are a few examples:
Text Message Scams
Referred to as "smishing," or SMS phishing, this scam tricks cellphone users into handing out their banking information under false pretenses.
Since many of us are so busy and involved with lots of online orders during the holiday season, some unfortunately end up giving out sensitive information to perpetrators (or downloading a virus that tracks and stores all activity on their phones).
Make sure not to respond to any prompts like "text message STOP" to end the messages. Doing so will alert spammers that the number is, in fact, active. Then, call us (and any other financial institutions you’re involved with) so we’re aware of the incident.
BIG SAVINGS Ads
Scammers are more than aware that we spend a lot more time shopping online and catching up with friends and family on social media. Be wary of ads that promise unrealistic prices, special coupons or additional discounts before you complete an online transaction. The ad may not be associated with the vendor whose website you are visiting.
Gift Card Scams
Many retail stores display gift cards near the checkout aisle or out in the open. Often, thieves and scammers will take the cards, obtain the pertinent numbers listed on them, and then place them back on store racks. Then, they wait for the cards to be activated and drain them of all the funds very quickly. To avoid purchasing a card that’s compromised:
1. Be suspicious of gift cards in packaging that appears to be tampered with.
2. If a retail outlet keeps its gift cards out in the open and not in any packaging, ask for gift cards behind the counter or in the back of the store.
3. Only purchase gift cards from trusted retailers or their websites; avoid purchasing them from third party vendors you aren't familiar with.
St. Tammany FCU wishes you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and scam-free holiday season!