Stay Safe During the Holidays

Stay "in bounds"

Criminals want to take communications with you "out of bounds" to strip away any protection that sales platforms offer. For example, on eBay, don't accept the invitation of bidding "out of the platform" by email or SMS. It can be tempting to avoid commissions taken by some platforms, but it is worth saving a few pennies compared to potentially losing a lot more to a fraudulent transaction.
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Don't overshare on social media

Leaving home for a holiday trip? Don't post this information publicly—be aware of your social media privacy settings.
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Don't open suspicious emails or click links

There is an increase in phishing scams around the holidays. Remember, reputable businesses, financial institutions, the IRS, and credit card providers will never ask for personal information in an email or by calling you. Also, don't believe all offers—be wary of "too good to be true" ads, giveaways, and contests.
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Be careful of messages regarding shipping changes

Go to your official trusted retailer website to track shipping instead of clicking a link in an unexpected email.

Watch out for holiday greeting e-cards

They may not be from the sender you think. Don't open these unless you're certain you can trust them.

Avoid charity scams

The holidays are an important time to give to those in need, but many people will take advantage of this. Watch for spoofed or fake phone numbers that look real, copycat organization names, or sweepstake promises. You'll notice a big uptick in the number of emails, letters, and phone calls you receive from charitable organizations. Use caution—and don't give credit card information if a charity calls you. Instead, do homework, and if you wish to give, contact a charity directly.
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Cryptocurrency scams

Scammers may post ads online that promise big payouts if you invest in their cryptocurrency, only to find that you cannot withdraw the money you've invested. Or they may offer easy-to-use software to help you mine for cryptocurrency, only to find it steals your money or personal information instead. Research before you invest. Avoid sites that "guarantee profits," including ones with celebrity endorsements, which can be easily faked.
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Gift cards

Be careful of phone calls, websites, or social media sites that offer gift cards deals or request payment in gift cards.
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Shop with familiar companies

Fake and unscrupulous internet retailers exist. Be suspicious of unbelievably low prices compared to other vendors.

Only visit and shop on websites and apps you know and trust–it may cost a little more but it is worth it. Many tricky fraudulent websites and apps come online during the busy retail periods offering massively discounted items.
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Protect your personal data

Criminals often target your personal data, not just your payment info. Holiday websites may ask you to fill out surveys or forms in exchange for holiday discounts. Remain vigilant of what data you are providing, to whom, and for what purpose.
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Do your research

Research products and sales before shopping. Use websites, smartphone apps, and social media to research products, compare prices, and find sales and discounts before you start shopping. Many retailers will offer different sales throughout the holiday shopping season. Avoid entering your personal information to get a coupon as some scammers use the promise of discounts to steal your information. Make sure the business has a physical address and phone number you can contact if there's a problem. You can also check for reviews on sites like Facebook, Yelp and Google.

Check for recalls

To check if a gift or toy has been recalled, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission website recall section.

Check your statements and credit regularly

The holidays are a busy time, and it can be easy to miss a stray transaction. Look over all your transactions so that you can spot any that may look unfamiliar, no matter how small the amount. This can help stop what could otherwise be long-term fraud.
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Use good password practices

When doing a lot of online shopping, it can be tempting to use the same password (or an easy-to-remember password) for multiple stores. Use strong and unique passwords on all your online accounts–don't use the same password on more than one account or the same passwords you use at your financial institutions.
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Make sure an online store is secure

Never buy anything online using your credit card from a site that doesn't have SSL (secure sockets layer) encryption installed, at the very least. You'll know if the site has SSL because the URL for the site will start with HTTPS—instead of just HTTP.

Guard yourself when you are out shopping

• Watch your wallet and bags
  Thieves know you're distracted during holiday shopping. Keep track of your wallet at all times and don't leave purses, shopping bags, or your phone behind while you browse.
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• Keep devices in view
  Know where they are throughout the course of any holiday travel.
• Use caution on public Wi-Fi
  Only connect to known Wi-Fi networks. Beware of Wi-Fi network names that have typos, extra characters, or no password protection.
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• Keep track of your cards during checkout
  Make certain you get your card back after every transaction. Return it to its place in your wallet—never drop it in a shopping bag or stick it in your pocket.
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• Guard your PIN
  If you pay with a debit card, block the keypad while you enter your PIN.
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• Be careful what you say
  Many stores ask you for personal information when you're checking out. For example, you will typically be asked for your home address, phone number, and perhaps your birthday when you sign up for a customer loyalty program. Don't reveal too much information out loud in a crowd.