December 2024
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it also presents an opportunity for scammers to exploit people’s excitement, generosity, and gift-giving frenzy.
One of the most common tactics used during this time of year is fake notification scams, which trick unsuspecting individuals into giving away personal information, money, or unfettered access to their personal devices. These scams typically come in the form of text messages or emails that appear to be from well-known companies like USPS, Amazon, UPS, or FedEx.
The message often claims that a package is waiting for you or there’s an issue with your order. Scammers use urgency to prompt you to click on a link or provide sensitive details such as your credit card number, login credentials, or home address. Some fake notifications claim you are eligible for a special holiday discount or offer.
To protect yourself from these scams, always double-check the sender’s information. Fake notifications will often come from unfamiliar or slightly altered email addresses or phone numbers.
Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unexpected messages. Instead, go directly to the official website or use the official app to check your account or package status. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
With increased online shopping and shipping activity during the holidays, staying skeptical of unsolicited notifications can help you avoid falling victim to deceptive scams.
Always prioritize privacy and trust your gut.
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