The FBI has issued a stark warning to holiday shoppers in 2024: scammers are more active and sophisticated than ever. With e-commerce sales projected to surpass $260 billion this season, the opportunities for fraud are at an all-time high. In 2023 alone, U.S. consumers lost $10 billion to scams, including $73 million in non-delivery scams and $148 million in gift card fraud.
Common Scams to Watch For
- Non-Delivery Scams: Fraudsters set up fake websites or listings for high-demand items like gaming consoles or designer goods. Shoppers pay, but the goods never arrive.
- Gift Card Fraud: Scammers impersonate charities or retailers, asking victims to buy gift cards and share the codes, leaving them with no recourse.
- Fake Charity Scams: Fraudsters use emotional appeals to solicit donations for bogus causes, often mimicking legitimate organizations.
- Phishing Emails and Fake Websites: Scammers send realistic emails or create fake retailer websites to steal payment or login information.
FBI’s Tips to Stay Safe
- Verify URLs: Ensure sites begin with “https” and show a padlock icon.
- Be Wary of Unrealistic Deals: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Credit cards offer protections that gift cards or wire transfers don’t.
- Research Charities: Use tools like Charity Navigator to confirm legitimacy.
- Track Shipments: Insist on tracking numbers to verify order fulfillment.
What to Do if You’re Scammed
The FBI advises filing a report with its Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and notifying your bank or credit card provider to dispute charges. You can also place a fraud alert on your credit file if personal information was stolen.
Staying vigilant is key. With scammers targeting distracted holiday shoppers, taking precautions can help protect your finances—and your festive spirit.
