The holiday season is one of the busiest, and most vulnerable times of the year for online shoppers. Between searching for the perfect gift and tracking deliveries, it’s easy to overlook warning signs of fraud. Unfortunately, scammers know this too, and they’re ready to take advantage.

Here are a few simple ways to help protect yourself and your finances this holiday season:

1. Shop from trusted retailers only.
   Stick to well-known, reputable stores and websites. Be cautious of unfamiliar online shops, social media ads, or links sent through email or text, especially if they promise huge discounts or limited-time deals.
2. Watch for fake delivery notifications.
   Scammers often send texts or emails claiming to be from USPS, UPS, or FedEx, asking you to click a link to “update delivery information.” Always check your shipment status directly on the official carrier’s website instead.
3. Don’t click suspicious links.
   Whether it’s an email, social media message, or text, avoid clicking on links from unknown sources. If you receive a message about your account, go directly to the company’s official website or app to verify.
4. Use secure payment methods.
   Credit cards or secure payment services offer better fraud protection than wire transfers, gift cards, or peer-to-peer apps. If a seller requests payment in any of those forms, it’s a red flag.
5. Check for website security.
   Before entering payment or personal information, make sure the site address begins with https:// and shows a padlock symbol in the browser bar, signs that your data is encrypted and protected.
6. Be cautious with deals that seem “too good to be true.”
   Scammers often lure shoppers with unrealistically low prices on popular items. If the deal feels off, trust your instincts and look elsewhere.
7. Monitor your accounts regularly.
   Set up account alerts to receive notifications of unusual activity or large transactions. Reviewing your statements frequently helps you spot fraud early.
8. Protect your personal information.
   Legitimate companies, banks, and financial institutions will never ask for your password, PIN, or full Social Security number via email or text. When in doubt, contact the company directly using a verified phone number or website.

This holiday season, a little extra caution can go a long way toward keeping your finances and personal information secure. For more fraud prevention resources, visit our Fraud Prevention Center or reach out to your local branch for assistance.