Protect Your Wallet: Avoid These Common Holiday Scams

Published on November 13, 2025 | Webster Bank

The holidays should be filled with joy, not fraud. Unfortunately, scammers know this is a busy, high-spending season and use it to their advantage. Here are some of the most common holiday scams—along with practical tips to help you stay safe.

1. Fake Online Stores

How it works: Scammers create professional-looking websites or social media shops offering “can’t-miss” deals on popular gifts. After you pay, the product never arrives—or you receive a cheap knockoff.

Stay safe:

• Shop only with well-known retailers or those with strong reviews.
• Look for “https://” and the padlock icon in your browser address bar.
• Pay by credit card, which offers fraud

2. Package Delivery Scams

How it works: You receive a text, email, or call claiming a package can’t be delivered until you provide personal details or pay a fee. The links often lead to phishing websites or malware.

Stay safe:

• Track packages directly through the shipper’s official site.
• Never click on unexpected links or give out personal information.

3. Gift Card Tricks

How it works: A scammer calls or emails pretending to be a utility company, tech support, or even a loved one in trouble, insisting you pay them with gift cards. Once the numbers are shared, the money is gone.

Stay safe:

• Remember: No legitimate business asks for gift cards as payment.
• Hang up and contact the company using a verified phone number.

4. Charity Scams

How it works: Fraudsters pose as charities or disaster-relief groups, playing on the spirit of giving to steal donations.

Stay safe:

• Research charities on sites like Charity Navigator or the BBB Wise Giving Alliance.
• Donate through the charity’s official website, not through links in emails or social posts.

5. Fake Travel Deals

How it works: Ads promise luxury trips or deep discounts for holiday getaways. Hidden fees—or nonexistent reservations—mean you could lose your money.

Stay safe:

• Book travel only through reputable agencies or directly with airlines and hotels.
• Avoid offers that require wire transfers or prepaid debit cards.

6. Social Media “Secret Santa” or Giveaway Scams

How it works: Posts invite you to join a “gift exchange” or giveaway where you send one gift and receive many in return. In reality, your money or personal info is collected and never returned.

Stay safe:

• Be wary of any scheme that promises something for nothing.
• Don’t share personal details or send gifts to strangers online.

Strengthen Your Defenses

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication on banking and shopping accounts.
• Set up account alerts to monitor purchases and withdrawals.
• Keep your devices and security software up to date, and avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi.

If You Spot Suspicious Activity

Contact us and your credit card company immediately if you suspect fraud or notice unauthorized transactions. Quick action can help stop losses and protect your credit.

Enjoy a Safe Holiday Season

With a little extra caution, you can shop, give, and celebrate with peace of mind. We are here to help you stay secure every step of the way.