12/03/2024
How to spot scams and keep your money safe this holiday season
The holidays are a time for giving, but unfortunately, they're also a time when scammers are out in full force.
If you're shopping online this season, here are a few rules of thumb to avoid getting scammed:
IF IT SEEMS TO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS: Be wary of sales or limited-time offers on popular items. Scammers try to create a sense of urgency so that you'll act quickly. Instead, take the time to investigate whether it's a reputable site or seller.
GO STRAIGHT TO THE SOURCE: Avoid clicking links from an ad, a text or an email from a retailer or banking institution. Instead, visit their website or app directly or give them a call. Scammers have gotten better at replicating messages from trusted sources, and it's better to be safe than sorry.
TRUST YOUR GUT: If something feels off, why risk it? You want to do business with someone you trust. If the communication with the site or seller feels unusual in any way, opt to make your purchase elsewhere.
CHECK WITH SOMEONE ELSE: If you're not sure whether you're being scammed, ask a trusted person who's not as emotionally invested in the decision as you.
Know how to handle credit card fraud. If a scammer gains access to your credit card information and makes unauthorized purchases, you have rights when facing credit card fraud.
Many cards offer zero-liability fraud protection, and the Fair Credit Billing Act allows you to dispute credit card errors.