The holiday season is not only a time of joy and celebration, but it\u2019s also a peak time for scammers to target busy and distracted consumers. At Polam Federal Credit Union, we want to help you stay vigilant and protect yourself from fraud. Here are some of the most common scams to be aware of during December and the holidays:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scammers may try to trick you into thinking your bank account or popular service accounts (like Amazon or Netflix) have been compromised. You might receive a text, phone call, or email claiming suspicious activity and urging you to act quickly to resolve the issue. These messages often include a link or phone number that looks safe\u2014but it\u2019s a trap. Don\u2019t click or call! Instead, go directly to the official site or app to check your account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scammers can easily create fake websites that look just like your favorite online stores. Always check for the \u201cHTTPS\u201d and the padlock symbol in the address bar, which indicates a secure connection. Pay close attention to the spelling of the website\u2019s address\u2014sometimes scammers add or change a single letter to make it seem legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As more people shop online during the holidays, scammers take advantage by sending fake shipping notifications. These messages may contain attachments or links that download malware onto your device. Alternatively, you might receive a vague postcard asking you to call a number, where scammers attempt to gather your personal details. Be cautious and track your packages directly through the retailer\u2019s website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The season of giving brings out the best in many\u2014but unfortunately, scammers know this too. They may pose as charities through emails, phone calls, or social media messages. To ensure your donation goes to a legitimate cause, verify charities through sites like give.org<\/a> or GivingMatters<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Scrolling through social media, you\u2019ll often come across enticing ads for products at great prices. While some may be legitimate, many are not. Always research the company before making a purchase, as online purchase scams are among the most frequently reported scams during the holidays.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The holiday season is not only a time of joy and celebration, but it\u2019s also a peak time for scammers to target busy and distracted consumers. At Polam Federal Credit Union, we want to help you stay vigilant and protect yourself from fraud. Here are some of the most common scams to be aware of … <\/p>\nMisleading Social Media Ads<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n