With increased online shopping, charitable giving, and festive communications, scams are on the rise.

Here are some of the most common Christmas scams to be aware of and tips to protect yourself:

1. Fake Online Offers

Enticing online deals promising massive discounts are often fraudulent. Scammers create convincing fake websites or ads to lure shoppers, leading to phishing attempts or malware installation.

How to stay protected: Always shop from trusted retailers by navigating directly to their official websites. Be cautious of offers that appear too good to be true.

2. Gift Card Scams

Gift cards are a convenient holiday choice but a frequent target for fraud. Scammers may sell counterfeit cards online or impersonate organisations, demanding payment via gift cards.

How to stay protected: Purchase gift cards only from reputable retailers and never provide card details to unknown parties.

3. Charity Fraud

The spirit of giving is often manipulated by scammers posing as charitable organisations. They use fake websites, emails, or social media campaigns to solicit donations for illegitimate causes.

How to stay protected: Verify charities through official sources, such as the Charity Commission, and donate via their authorised platforms.

4. Delivery Scams

Phishing messages claiming issues with parcel deliveries are common during the busy festive period. These often contain links that steal personal information or install malicious software.

How to stay protected: Track packages through official retailer or courier websites and avoid clicking on unsolicited messages or links.

By staying vigilant, exercising caution, and adopting secure online practices, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your business from holiday scams. Enjoy the festive season with peace of mind, knowing your personal and financial information is secure.