Holiday Scams: Don’t Let Them Steal Your Cheer
The holidays are a time for joy, but scammers are working overtime to turn your festive spirit into frustration. Here are three popular scams making the rounds this season with tips to keep your holiday merry and bright.
The Bourbon Scam
Here’s the scene: you’ve been hunting for a bottle of rare bourbon … something like Pappy Van Winkle … to impress the in-laws. Then, like a holiday miracle, you spot it online at a price that’s almost too good to be true. Here’s the gist: it is! Scammers lure bourbon lovers with fake websites or ads, promising rare bottles at bargain prices. The result? No bourbon, and a bank account that’s taken a hit.
How to Keep Your Bourbon Dreams From Going Up in Smoke:
– Only buy from reputable retailers or distilleries.
– If the price seems suspiciously low, it’s probably a scam. (No one is going to be selling Pappy for the cost of a gas station’s whiskey).
– Research websites before purchasing. Your wallet will thank you.
The Fake Gift Kit Scam
Who doesn’t love a good gift kit during the holidays? They’re simple, smart and scammers are hoping you don’t realize it’s a cover for them. They prey on unsuspecting shoppers with ads for “luxury skincare kits,” “gourmet gift baskets,” or other must-have bundles. You pay, and then what do you receive? Either nothing at all or a cheap knockoff that wouldn’t fool even your dog.
How to Avoid Getting Fooled:
– Shop from reputable sellers or well-known brands and verify the legitimacy of their website.
– Be skeptical of unsolicited ads offering steep discounts.
– Pay with a credit card so you can dispute fraudulent charges.
The Online Pet Adoption Scam
Few things warm the heart like the thought of bringing a new furry friend home for the holidays. I have tried very hard not to adopt a new kitty this holiday so I totally understand the desire. Scammers know we are weak for new fur babies and set up fake listings for puppies or kittens in need of a home. They’ll tug at your heartstrings, ask for payment upfront for adoption fees or transportation, and then vanish, leaving you with nothing but disappointment.
How to Protect Your Heart (and Wallet):
– Insist on meeting the pet in person before making any payments. At a minimum, ask to Facetime with them before meeting up.
– Research breeders (or rescue organizations) thoroughly. Ask for recommendations from neighbors, family and friends.
– Be cautious of unusually low adoption fees or emotional pleas.
– Use a secure payment method. Credit cards offer better fraud protection than wire transfers or gift cards.
Cheers to a scam-free holiday! Guard Well Identity Theft Solutions exists to provide you, your family and your employees from the damages of identity theft. And remember, we are never closed on a holiday! Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help or have any questions or concerns. We are available for you 24/7/365 at 888.966.4827 (GUARD) and [email protected].
Photo courtesy credit: Peter Zhang via unsplash.com.
