Every season brings new ways to shop, share, and send money, and new tricks from scammers trying to take advantage. Bad actors are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, from AI-generated deepfakes to urgent payment requests, to trick even the most careful consumers. This holiday season and beyond, stay alert. Learn how to spot the warning signs, protect your money, and keep your holiday gift-giving scam-free.
Because when you know what to look for, you can be smarter than scams.
Scammers may pretend to be someone you trust, such as a friend, a relative, or even a company representative. Scams can start anywhere – a text, email, or through social media – and quickly evolve into schemes designed to steal your money or information. If you spot suspicious activity or messages, get help by reaching out to verified support channels, like the number on the back of your card or in the app. You should always report a scam or suspected scam to your local law enforcement.
Phishing scams are “fishing” for your private information. Scammers try to bait you by getting you to share personal details – whether from an app, a bank, or even a friend, asking you to click a link, verify your account, or make a payment using traditional money or cryptocurrency. Smart habits like these keep your money and identity safe.
If someone asks you to pay them with a gift card, it’s almost always a scam. Gift cards are like cash; once spent, the funds are gone. Scammers often create urgency to pressure you into buying cards and sharing the codes. No legitimate person, business, or government agency will ever ask for payment with a gift card. If someone does, stop immediately and report it to the platform you’re using.
Scammers prey on generosity, especially around the holidays. They may use fake websites or social media posts to collect “donations” that never reach the cause. Before you give, double-check that the organization is legitimate by searching for it directly. A quick check can make sure your kindness goes where it’s meant to.
That adorable puppy photo might be too good to be true. Scammers often ask for deposits before you’ve met the seller or the animal. Avoid sending money upfront or through methods that can’t be reversed. Always verify the seller’s identity and see the pet in person before paying. Doing your homework is the smarter way to bring home a new companion.
Scammers send fake invoices that appear to come from trusted vendors, subscription services, or delivery companies. These messages often mimic real branding and claim you owe money for a recent purchase, renewal, or shipment. They may include links to “view” or “dispute” the charge, which instead lead to phishing sites or malware downloads. Verify invoices directly through official websites or known contacts before paying to ensure your money is going to a legitimate destination.
Scammers build emotional connections to earn your trust before asking for money or personal information. If someone you’ve only met online asks for financial help, pause and think twice. Your feelings may be real, but their goal is to take advantage of them. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person. Real love doesn’t come with a price tag.
They pose as banks, delivery services, or familiar brands. They want your trust and your information. Trusted companies will never call for your password or account details.
Scammers are getting more sophisticated, but so are the systems built to stop them.
Through smart technology, strong collaboration, and easy-to-use safety tools, financial technology firms are working together to keep you and your money secure.
AI-driven systems detect suspicious activity and block unauthorized transactions, often before they happen.
Companies work closely with law enforcement and industry partners to track scammers and take action quickly.
Block, report, or review suspicious accounts directly in-app to help protect yourself and others.
Our industry supports a national fraud prevention strategy that unites government, law enforcement, tech, and finance, embracing digital tools to keep people safe from scams.
Check out our resources to stay ahead of scams this holiday season.
