Holiday Offers: Steals or Deals?
Criminals love to target holiday shoppers in search of deals. How can you tell a real deal from scam? We have information on how you can safeguard yourself this winter when it comes to saving money and shopping for others.
- That great deal advertised on social media could be a trap set to take your money and never deliver the goods you ordered.
- Watch for fake delivery notifications. Scammers send fake texts or emails claiming your package (which doesn’t exist) won’t be delivered unless you pay a fee.
- Looking for a hard-to-find item? Some scams lure victims with bargain prices on popular gifts. When the package arrives, it’s a cheap knock-off of what you thought you were getting.
- An email that appears to be from a well-known retailer may be a ruse to gather your personal information. If it asks you to fill out a survey or claim a prize, it’s probably a scam.
Here’s how to protect yourself.
- Verify, Verify, Verify. Make sure you are spending your money with a genuine online retailer. Check for reviews and check the website’s address for anything that looks off, such as a strange spelling.
- A retailer does not need your social security number, account numbers, and passwords. You should also be sure the website is secure.
- Stay informed by checking our website for the latest scams and cyber threats.
- Look out for deals that seem too good to be true.
If you think your information or money has been stolen:
- Contact us at NorthCountry. We will take any steps necessary to protect you from further loss.
- Change your passwords immediately.
- Report the scam to www.identitytheft.gov
Remembering these guidelines can keep your money and personal information safe while shopping for your friends and loved ones.