Scammers are more active and smart than ever, the FBI has warned holiday consumers in 2024. Given that this season’s e-commerce sales are expected to exceed $260 billion, fraud potential are at an all-time high. Scams cost American consumers $10 billion in 2023 alone, with gift card theft accounting for $148 million and non-delivery scams for $73 million.
Common Scams to Watch For
- Non-Delivery Scams: Fraudsters set up fake websites or listings for high-demand items like gaming consoles or designer goods. Shoppers pay, but the goods never arrive.
- Gift Card Fraud: Scammers impersonate charities or retailers, asking victims to buy gift cards and share the codes, leaving them with no recourse.
- Fake Charity Scams: Fraudsters use emotional appeals to solicit donations for bogus causes, often mimicking legitimate organizations.
- Phishing Emails and Fake Websites: Scammers send realistic emails or create fake retailer websites to steal payment or login information.
FBI s Tips to Stay Safe
- Verify URLs: Ensure sites begin with https and show a padlock icon.
- Be Wary of Unrealistic Deals: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Credit cards offer protections that gift cards or wire transfers don t.
- Research Charities: Use tools like Charity Navigator to confirm legitimacy.
- Track Shipments: Insist on tracking numbers to verify order fulfillment.
What to Do if You re Scammed
To dispute charges, the FBI suggests contacting your bank or credit card company and submitting a report to its Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). In the event that personal data was taken, you can also set a fraud alert on your credit report.
It’s important to remain alert. Taking preventative measures will help safeguard both your dollars and your festive spirit, as scammers target distracted holiday shoppers.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!