by Michelle Skinner, MCU Communications Director, and a few of the best fraud fighters from across Montana

Want to stop scammers in their tracks? Here are a few of the top scams out there this season, and what you can do to protect your money, your friends and family, and your holiday peace.

 

1. Fake Online Stores and “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Deals

For this scam, cybercriminals clone legitimate retailer websites or create convincing fake stores that offer massive discounts on popular items, such as electronics and luxury goods. Then, victims either receive counterfeit products or nothing at all.

Red Flags:

• Misspelled URLs (e.g., “BestBuyy.com”)
• No HTTPS padlock symbol
• Prices far below market value

How to Stay Safe:

• Type the retailer’s web address manually
• Research unfamiliar sellers and read reviews
• Pay with a credit card for fraud protection

 

2. Package Delivery Scams

With millions of packages in transit, scammers send fake texts or emails claiming delivery issues are occurring. These messages often include links to phishing sites that steal credentials or install malware.

Common Ploys:

• “Your package is on hold — click here to update”
• “Pay a redelivery fee”
• Receiving a mysterious package with a QR code on the inside, which directs you to a phishing site

What to Do:

• Never click links in unsolicited messages
• Track packages only through official carrier websites or apps
• Report suspicious texts to your carrier or the FTC

 

3. Gift Card Scams

Gift cards are a favorite among fraudsters all year long because they’re hard to trace — and easy to fall for. Scammers impersonate bosses, government agencies, or even family members, demanding payment via gift cards.

“I think it’s more challenging to identify gift card scams, since many people buy gift cards legitimately during the holiday season,” says Ryan Murphy, BSACS, Risk Manager with Rocky Mountain Credit Union.

Warning Signs:

• Requests for gift card numbers and PINs
• Pressure to act immediately

Prevention Tips:

• Legitimate businesses and agencies never request payment via gift cards
• Buy cards only from reputable retailers and check the packaging for tampering
• If you receive a request for gift cards, take a moment to confirm that the sending email address is legitimate

 

4. Charity and Crowdfunding Frauds

Fake charities pop up every year, using emotional appeals to solicit donations that never reach those in need.

How to Verify:

• Check organizations on Charity Navigator or GuideStar
• Donate through official websites, not through links in emails or social media
• Avoid high-pressure tactics — legitimate charities won’t rush you
• Read this blog on how to choose a reputable charity

 

5. Holiday Phishing and Social Media Scams

Fraudsters send emails or texts posing as retailers, banks, or delivery services. Others use social media ads to lure shoppers to fake sites.

Meagan Kraft, Chief Operations Officer with Clearwater Credit Union, explains, “This occurs when the fraudulent link leads members to a fake website that steals their money and/or personal information. The scammer takes the payment without delivering anything.”

Tips:

• Hover over links before clicking to make sure they’ll take you where you want to go
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on accounts
• Ignore requests for sensitive information via email or text (Norton) and pick up the phone; call your mother, and then call the institution directly to confirm the request

 

6. Seasonal Job Scams

Looking for extra holiday cash? Scammers post fake job ads promising high pay and flexible hours, then demand upfront fees for “training” or equipment.

Stay Safe:

• Research employers before applying
• Never pay for a job opportunity
• AARP Fraud Watch recommends using official company websites for applications

 

BONUS: Emerging Threats: AI-Powered Scams

Generative AI is making scams harder to spot because fraudsters use AI to create realistic fake websites, ads, and even voice messages. These tools mimic legitimate brands so convincingly that even savvy shoppers can be fooled.

Defense Strategies:

• Update device software regularly
• Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager
• Consumer Affairs recommends turning on multi-factor authentication for all accounts

 

Practical Tips to Protect Yourself

1. Pause Before You Pay: Take 30 seconds to verify any request before acting
2. Shop Smart: Stick to trusted retailers and avoid clicking on ads from unknown sources
3. Secure Your Accounts: Enable 2FA and monitor statements for unauthorized transactions
4. Verify Before Donating: Research charities and avoid donating through links in unsolicited messages
5. Report Suspicious Activity: File complaints at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and notify your bank immediately if you suspect fraud

 

Final Thoughts

Holiday scams are the burned pie crust and curdled eggnog of the season; they can drain your finances and ruin your festive spirit. By staying informed and vigilant, you can safeguard your finances, protect your identity, and maintain your peace of mind. Remember: if a deal, message, or request feels off, it probably is.

Happy holidays!