As the holiday season approaches, we want to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones a joyful and safe holiday.
It’s also a time when scammers become more active, so we would like to share a few simple tips to help protect you and your finances.
Staying Safe During the Holidays
- Bring packages inside – Stealing delivered packages is more common during the holidays.
- Don't overshare on social media – Leaving home for a holiday trip? Don’t post this information publicly.
- Don't open suspicious emails or click links – There is an increase in phishing scams around the holidays. Remember, reputable businesses, financial institutions, the IRS, and credit card providers will never ask for personal information in an email or by calling you.
- Be careful of messages regarding shipping changes - Go to your official trusted retailer website to track shipping instead of clicking a link in an unexpected email.
- Shop with familiar companies - Fake and unscrupulous internet retailers exist. Be suspicious of unbelievably low prices compared to other vendors. Only visit and shop on websites and apps you know and trust – It may cost a little more but it’s worth it.
- Use caution on public Wi-Fi - Only connect to known WiFi networks – Beware of WiFi network names that have typos, extra characters, or no password protection.
- Protect your personal data - Criminals often target your personal data, not just your payment info. Holiday websites may ask you to fill out surveys or forms in exchange for holiday discounts. Remain vigilant of what data you are providing, to whom, and for what purpose.
- Always go direct – If someone is claiming to be a support representative, don’t give them access to your device, don’t download any software, and don’t send money or crypto.
-------------
Stay informed and fraud aware. Explore resources and protection tips at Stellar Bank's Fraud Protection Center.
