With the holiday season in full swing, scams are becoming more prevalent, warns Jon Maroni, Financial Engagement Manager at Numerica Credit Union. As people increase their online shopping, scammers are taking advantage of heightened stress levels to exploit unsuspecting consumers.
One common scam involves fake package delivery notifications. Maroni advises, “Whenever you get an unsolicited contact from even a source you might be expecting, it’s always good to reach out through a legitimate channel.” He emphasizes checking the source of any emails or text messages and avoiding clicking on suspicious links.
Charity scams are also rampant during this time. Fraudsters may pose as legitimate nonprofits, sometimes even using donor lists to reach out. Maroni recommends being cautious, checking email addresses, and avoiding clicking on links that could lead to ransomware attacks.
If you suspect a scam, Maroni suggests verifying information through official websites. “Scammers often want to create a sense of urgency to get you to move fast,” he said. Slowing down and asking questions can help prevent falling victim.
For those who do fall prey, Maroni advises not to be embarrassed and to act quickly. “Reach out to your credit union or bank,” he said. Reporting the fraud immediately increases the chances of recovering lost funds.
Maroni also highlights a lesser-known scam called gift card draining, where scammers tamper with cards at physical kiosks. He recommends purchasing gift cards online directly from retailers to avoid tampering.
To stay safe, Maroni advises asking questions, controlling communication channels, and slowing down. “We’re always so rushed and hurried around the holidays,” he said. “If we slow down and pause, often our gut is going to catch those scams.”
