The holidays are a busy time for all of us. Between early deals, shipping deadlines, and a long gift list, it’s easy to move fast and click first. Scammers know this, and they count on it. The good news is that most holiday scams follow familiar patterns, and once you know them, they’re much easier to spot.

Fake online stores and too-good-to-be-true deals

You see a brand-name item at 70% off, and the site looks professional. Be careful. Scammers can build convincing websites in a matter of hours, often with stolen logos and photos. Before you buy, check the web address for small misspellings, look for contact information and a return policy, and search the store name along with the word “reviews.” If a price seems impossible, it probably is. When in doubt, go directly to the retailer’s official website instead of clicking a link in an ad or social media post.

Fake delivery and order texts

With so many packages in motion, a text saying “your package couldn’t be delivered” or “confirm your address” feels believable. These messages often include a link that leads to a fake login page or asks for a small “redelivery fee.” Don’t tap the link. Instead, track your order through the retailer’s app or website, or go straight to the carrier’s official site. Real delivery companies won’t ask for your card number over text.

Gift card requests

Gift cards are a favorite tool for scammers because they’re hard to trace and nearly impossible to recover once the codes are shared. Be suspicious of anyone who asks you to pay with gift cards, especially if they claim to be from a government agency, a utility company, or even a family member in a rush. Also check the packaging on any gift card you buy in a store. Make sure the protective scratch-off area hasn’t been touched or tampered with.

Social media marketplace and payment app scams

Sold-out toys and hard-to-find gifts often show up on social media marketplaces at tempting prices. Some sellers take the payment and never ship anything. Others send a fake payment confirmation and ask you to send money back. Use a credit card or a payment method with buyer protection when you can and avoid paying friends-and-family style through a payment app for a purchase from a stranger.

Fake charity appeals

Many of us feel generous this time of year, and scammers take advantage of that. Be cautious of unexpected calls, texts, or social media posts asking for donations, especially if the pressure is urgent. Look up the charity yourself and donate through its official website.

A few simple habits that go a long way

• Slow down. Urgency is a scammer’s best tool.
• Use a credit card for online purchases when possible, since it often offers stronger fraud protection.
• Turn on transaction alerts so you see activity on your accounts right away.
• Use strong, unique passwords and turn on two-factor authentication for shopping and banking accounts.
• Review your statements regularly during the holiday season.

If something doesn’t feel right

If you think you’ve shared your card number, login details, or personal information with a scammer, act quickly. Contact us right away so we can help secure your accounts. The sooner we know, the more we can do. You can also report scams to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Remember, NGFCU will never call, text, or email you to ask for your full card number, one-time security codes, or online banking password.

If you get a message that seems to be from NGFCU and something feels off, hang up or delete it and reach out to us at 800.633.2848, secure message through Online Banking, or stop by a branch.

From all of us at NGFCU, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season.