Top 3 Holiday Scams Targeting Seniors and Tips to Stay Safe
1. Fake Charity Scams
Scammers pose as representatives of charities, requesting donations via phone, email, or social media. These fake organizations exploit the holiday spirit of giving, often using convincing names or websites.
Tips to Avoid This Scam:
Verify the Charity: Use websites like Charity Navigator to check legitimacy.
Don’t Rush: Avoid making donations under pressure. Take your time to research.
Make Direct Donations: Donate through the charity’s official website instead of responding to unsolicited requests.
2. Holiday Package Delivery Scams
Scammers send fake delivery notifications via email or text claiming there’s an issue with a package. These messages often include a malicious link to “resolve the problem,” which can stealpersonal information or install malware.
Tips to Avoid This Scam:
Verify Tracking Numbers: Only check package status using official delivery company websites.
Avoid Clicking Links: Don’t click on links from unsolicited emails or texts.
Contact the Company Directly: If unsure, call the delivery service’s official number.
3. Gift Card Scams
Scammers call or email, pretending to be a family member, friend, or organization, and ask seniors to purchase gift cards and share the codes. This is often framed as an “urgent” situation.
Tips to Avoid This Scam:
Never Share Codes: Once shared, gift card funds are unrecoverable.
Question Urgent Requests: Verify with the person or organization before acting.
Report on the Incident: If scammed, report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Seniors can stay safe by being cautious and skeptical of unsolicited requests during the holidays. Sharing these tips with loved ones can help ensure a safe and joyful season for all.
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