The holiday season is filled with excitement, special deals, and gift-giving, but it’s also one of the busiest times of year for scammers. As more consumers shop and connect online, fraudsters continue to find new ways to target unsuspecting individuals.

This holiday season, shoppers should be especially cautious of online advertisements and social media promotions that offer popular products at unusually low prices. Scammers often create convincing ads and websites that mimic legitimate retailers, making it difficult to spot the difference. In some cases, shoppers receive counterfeit merchandise, items that don’t match the description, or nothing at all. According to the Federal Trade Commission, shopping scams remain one of the most reported scams that originate on social media, making it important to verify sellers and think twice before clicking on a deal that seems too good to be true.

Shoppers aren’t the only people being targeted online. Scammers frequently use social media platforms to initiate romance scams, creating fake profiles and building trust with victims before requesting money for an emergency, travel expenses, or other situations. Others promote “can’t-miss” investment opportunities, promising guaranteed returns through cryptocurrency, stocks, or exclusive investment programs. The Federal Trade Commission reports that investment scams account for the largest dollar losses among scams originating on social media, while romance scams continue to impact thousands of consumers each year.

To protect yourself, take a moment to verify who you’re dealing with before sending money or making a purchase. Research unfamiliar sellers, be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true and never feel pressured to act immediately. When shopping online, use a credit card whenever possible, as it often provides stronger fraud protection. Be especially cautious if someone asks you to pay using gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or peer-to-peer payment apps.

A little extra caution can go a long way this holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, participating in a social media sale, forming new online relationships, or considering an investment opportunity, taking time to verify information before acting can help keep your finances safe and your holidays focused on what matters most.

Sources:

Holiday Scams — FBI

How to spot the top scams that started on social media | Consumer Advice

How to avoid an online shopping scam this holiday season | Consumer Advice