The holiday season is a time for fun, relaxation, and reflection. But it is also the season for fraudsters.
While we don’t want to spoil your holiday shopping plans, these are some of the common holiday habits that could lead to fraud. So, read on:
Lending your debit card to your child or family member. While there is nothing wrong with trusting your debit or credit cards to family members, you are also at risk of exposing your personal information. Card details can be mistakably shared to fraudulent websites when used to shop online. Remember, the responsibility falls on you to secure your card information.
Giving to ‘Christmas’ charities. Giving to charities is good. But fraudsters are now using charities to trick you into giving away your personal information, or worse, cash. Be wary of these dubious charities, especially those thriving online. There are legitimate organizations that deserve your Christmas donation.
Instagramming your travel. Never overshare personal information. While you love to share your recent adventures with friends and followers, you are also leaving yourself vulnerable to fraudsters who exploit your being away. Criminals target people who are away using information they gather on them through public social media posts. If you need to be away for a long vacation, be more discreet with your social media activities.
Winning an online raffle. If you receive an e-mail, an SMS or an online chat saying you won an online raffle, you’re close to being scammed. And because it is also the season for fraudsters, be wary of unknown messages received via these channels claiming you’re a winner of raffle that you don’t know of. Fake raffles use unknown or even private mobile numbers or a fake identity recently created on social media accounts. Legitimate raffles carry government certifications (such as those coming from the Department of Trade and Industry), a company name, and a promo period.