Common Holiday Scams to Look Out For

The holidays are a time for friends, family and giving, but they’re also a prime time for scams. Watch out for these common holiday schemes:

Online shopping scams. Criminals create convincing websites and ads offering popular items at unusually low prices. Shop directly through trusted retailers’ websites or apps, avoid links in ads, emails and texts, and use a credit card for stronger purchase protections.

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Delivery scams. Scammers send fake delivery notices posing as UPS, FedEx, or the U.S. Postal Service. Clicking the link can lead to websites that steal personal information or install malware. To verify a delivery, visit the shipper's website or app directly.

Gift card scams. Criminals may steal gift card information from store racks and drain the balance after the card is purchased. Choose cards kept behind the counter or buy directly from the retailer’s website.

Learn how to spot and avoid scams with AARP Fraud Watch Network™. Suspect a scam? Call our free helpline at 877-908-3360 and talk to one of our fraud specialists about what to do next.