25 Tips to Keep Your Finances Safe During the Holidays

Here are 25 tips to help keep you and your finances safe this holiday season.

Bring Packages Inside

Package theft spikes during the holidays. Bring deliveries indoors to avoid theft or giving the impression that you're out of town. You can also have Amazon deliveries sent to a nearby Amazon locker location.
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Keep all your devices up to date

Make sure all of your devices are up to date with basic security measures to lessen your chance of becoming a victim of fraud.
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Update Your antivirus software

Make sure that your computer and phone security software installs updates regularly, and that your operating systems are up-to-date.
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Stick to official platforms

Criminals want to take communications with you "out of bounds" to strip away any protection that sales sites offer. For example, on eBay, don't accept the invitation of bidding "outside of the platform" by email or text. The small savings from avoiding platform fees aren't worth the risk of falling for a scam.
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Don't overshare on social media

Leaving home for a holiday trip? Don't post this information publicly—and be aware of your social media privacy settings. Be wary of retail ads on social media sites like Facebook and Instagram; they may seem "safe" but can be fraudulent.
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Don't open suspicious emails or click links

There is always an increase in phishing scams around the holidays. Remember, reputable businesses, financial institutions (including Tower), the IRS, and credit card providers will never ask for personal information or passwords in an email or by phone. Also, don't believe all offers—be wary of "too good to be true" ads, giveaways, and contests. When in doubt, contact the company directly using their official website or phone number.
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Verify shipping updates

If you receive unexpected shipping updates (your package has been delayed, is stuck in customs, etc.) don't click on links in emails or texts. Instead, go directly to the retailer website to track your package.

Watch out for holiday greeting e-cards

They may not be from the sender you think and could contain malware or viruses. 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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Be cautious with gift cards

Be careful of phone calls, websites, or social media sites that offer gift card deals or request payment in gift cards. Legitimate businesses rarely ask for payment using gift cards. If someone does, it's likely a scam. Only purchase gift cards from reputable retailers or official websites.
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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—don't be tempted.
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Guard 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 provide, to whom, and for what purpose, and take advantage of free identity theft protection and monitoring services like ID Smart Shield.
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Research before you buy

Research products and sales before shopping. Use trusted websites, 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.

Monitor 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. Catching these early can prevent bigger problems down the line. Consider setting up alerts for all transactions to stay on top of your accounts.
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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
Phones, tablets, and laptops are attractive targets for thieves, especially in crowded areas or while you're distracted. 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, shield the keypad while you enter your PIN. Be aware of your surroundings and potential onlookers.
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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 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. Your financial safety is worth more than any holiday deal.