Holiday Scams Hit Record High: 9 in 10 Americans Targeted Last Year

According to a recent AARP survey of nearly 2,000 U.S. adults, nearly 9 out of 10 reported being targeted by or falling for some type of scam during the holiday season in the past year. The survey highlights the growing concern of holiday scams, which often take advantage of individuals' increased anxiety and distraction during this time. Amy Nofziger, senior director of Fraud Victim Support at the AARP Fraud Watch Network, a fraud prevention service, notes that "there's a lot of hustle and bustle during the holiday season, so there's a lot more opportunities for scammers to steal from us." The AARP survey identified four common holiday scams that individuals should be aware of: fake shipping notifications, charity scams, gift card scams, and online shopping scams. Fake shipping notifications scams involve scammers sending emails or text messages claiming that a package has been delayed or is being held at a customs office, and that the recipient must pay a fee to release it. Charity scams often involve fake charities or crowdfunding campaigns that promise to support a good cause, but instead use the donations for personal gain. Gift card scams involve scammers asking individuals to purchase gift cards and then providing them with the card numbers, which are used to make unauthorized purchases. Online shopping scams involve scammers creating fake online stores or websites that promise deep discounts or free shipping, but instead steal the victims' personal and financial information. The AARP survey found that nearly 9 out of 10 individuals reported being targeted by or falling for some type of scam during the holiday season in the past year. This highlights the need for individuals to be vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from these scams. To avoid falling victim to holiday scams, individuals should be cautious when receiving unsolicited emails or text messages, especially those that ask for personal or financial information. They should also research charities and crowdfunding campaigns before donating, and be wary of deep discounts or free shipping offers that seem too good to be true. Additionally, individuals should keep their personal and financial information secure, and monitor their accounts regularly for any suspicious activity. The AARP Fraud Watch Network provides resources and support for individuals who have fallen victim to scams, including a hotline and online resources. Individuals can also report suspicious activity to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or their local authorities. As the holiday season approaches, individuals should be aware of these common scams and take steps to protect themselves. By being vigilant and taking precautions, individuals can reduce their risk of falling victim to holiday scams and enjoy a safe and secure holiday season.