A Guide to Avoid Scams this Christmas

Let’s make this holiday joyful and secure!

With the holiday season just around the corner, the air is filled with excitement as twinkling lights and festive gatherings come to life. Yet, amidst the joy and cheer, there’s a shadowy element to be aware of—scammers are on the prowl, eager to exploit the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping. To keep the spirit of the season bright and your celebrations worry-free, staying alert and educated about common scams is crucial.

Empower yourself with these strategies and take charge of your safety today.

Verify websites and retailers.

Verifying the website’s security features is important when considering a purchase online. Ensure the URL begins with “https://” and look for a padlock symbol in the address bar, indicating that the site is secure. Furthermore, it’s advisable to check for customer reviews and ratings. If a website has a substantial number of negative reviews or lacks an established online presence, it might be wise to avoid that site.

Be cautious with email and SMS offers

Your inbox and phone may be inundated during the holiday season with promotional offers. While some of these offers may be legitimate, others could be phishing or smishing attempts. To stay safe, avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or texts. Instead, visit the retailer’s official website directly to check for promotions. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is—so it’s best to walk away.

Text messages that pose as alerts about your package delivery, often impersonating companies like DPD or An Post, are common scams during this time of year. These messages can also resemble bank scams, pretending to be from trusted institutions like credit unions or post offices. They create a sense of urgency, suggesting that you need to take immediate action regarding an important issue, such as a package. Some texts may claim your package has been delivered, playing on your excitement or, if you haven’t ordered anything, preying on your curiosity.

Remember, your credit union will never ask you to click on a link to update your personal security, PIN, or password details. Never share this information with anyone.

**What to do if you receive a suspicious text:**

Be cautious with any text that doesn’t come from a contact in your phone. Never click on a suspicious text, open attachments, or download files, as these could infect your phone with a virus. If you receive anything that appears suspicious, we have two words for you: delete and report. If you suspect a text message is fraudulent, report it immediately.

It’s essential to be aware that criminals may contact you via text, email, or phone, posing as representatives from your Credit Union, banks, or well-known organisations like An Post and Amazon. Their aim is often to gain access to your banking or card information. Remember, anyone can fall victim to financial fraud and scams. Being proactive and cautious can significantly strengthen your defenses against potential threats.

Practice Safe Social Media

It’s essential to be mindful of what you share on social media. Although connecting with friends and family is important, you must exercise caution. Do not post personal information, like your address or travel plans, as this can make you vulnerable to fraudsters. Take charge of your online safety by adjusting your privacy settings to strictly limit who can see your posts and information.

Monitor Your Accounts

Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements. Regularly reviewing your financial accounts can help you spot unauthorised transactions early. If you notice anything suspicious, report it to your bank or credit card company immediately.

Educate Family and Friends

Fraud can significantly impact vulnerable individuals, particularly our elderly family members or those who may not be as comfortable with technology. Taking the time to educate your family and friends about common scams and safe online practices can make a significant difference. Encourage open discussions about any suspicious offers they encounter, and share useful resources for reporting fraud.

Visit Fraudsmart.ie for all up to date scams.

Call us on 053 912 3909 if you’re unsure about a message claiming to be from Wexford Credit Union.

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