Navigating the Holidays Safely: A Guide to Avoiding Financial Scams

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving and joy fills the air. However, this time of year also sees a rise in financial scams, targeting unsuspecting individuals in the midst of their festive preparations. At Roswell Credit Union, we are committed to helping our members stay informed and protected. Here’s a rundown of common holiday financial scams and tips on how to prevent them.

1. Online Shopping Scams

During the holidays, many of us turn to online shopping for convenience and deals. Scammers take advantage of this by setting up fake websites or advertisements offering popular items at drastically reduced prices.

Prevention Tips:

  • Always shop on reputable websites.

  • Check for a secure connection (look for “https” in the URL).

  • Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.

2. Gift Card Scams

Gift cards are a popular holiday item, and scammers often trick people into purchasing them under false pretenses.

Prevention Tips:

  • Never share gift card numbers or PINs over the phone or email.

  • Purchase gift cards directly from known retailers, not through links in emails.

3. Phishing Scams

Phishing attempts increase during the holidays. Emails or texts, appearing to be from known retailers or financial institutions, ask for personal information or direct recipients to fraudulent websites.

Prevention Tips:

  • Do not click on links from unknown sources.

  • Verify the sender by checking their email address or contacting them directly.

4. Charity Scams

Scammers often exploit the holiday spirit by setting up fake charity websites or soliciting donations for non-existent causes.

Prevention Tips:

  • Donate to well-known charities.

  • Check the legitimacy of a charity through resources like the Better Business Bureau.

5. Travel Scams

As people plan holiday travels, scammers offer fake vacation packages or non-existent accommodations at a bargain.

Prevention Tips:

  • Book through reputable travel agencies or direct websites.

  • Be cautious of unsolicited offers and requests for upfront payments.

6. Social Media Scams

Scammers use social media to post fake advertisements or hack into accounts to send fraudulent messages to your friends and family.

Prevention Tips:

  • Be cautious of deals found solely on social media.

  • Keep your accounts secure with strong, unique passwords.

Roswell Credit Union’s Commitment

At Roswell Credit Union, your financial safety is our priority. We offer resources and tools to help you manage your accounts securely. Our team is always here to assist you with any concerns or questions about potential scams.

Remember, the key to a safe holiday season is vigilance and awareness. By staying informed and cautious, you can enjoy the festivities without falling victim to financial scams. For more information and assistance, visit our website or contact us directly. Let's keep your holidays merry, bright, and secure!

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