Christmas Scam Alerts Part One

It’s very nearly that time of the year again, if it isn’t already. That time of the year for tinsel, merriment, parties, celebration, worship and sadly, time for scammers to crawl out from wherever they crawl out from. As we all know, scammers are always “at it” unfortunately. However, at this time of the year, they are even more lively it seems. So, take heed of these Christmas scam alerts.

Having said that, I’m sure these particular scams will, or can be, present at any time, but with Christmas deliveries increasing, there is an even bigger opportunity for scammers. Or, more importantly, from our point of view, a period for us all to be extra cautious.

Let’s take a quick look at these Christmas scam alerts. I’ll post details of two of the most frequently used scams in this post and I’ll follow up with some more details of others in another post.

Christmas Scam Alerts

Did you know that in the region of 78% of British shoppers carry out some or all of their Christmas shopping online. Wow, that is a high figure. I didn’t realise it would be as high as that. But anyway, let’s crack on.

While online shopping may make things easier for shoppers, especially if you work long hours, or find it difficult to get out to traditional bricks and mortar stores, it can increase your level of risk.

In this article, I’ll highlight a couple of Christmas scam alerts. More posts to follow. Make a note and take heed and take a look at some of the top Christmas scams you might face this year. Hopefully this will raise your awareness. And, as with all public warning posts, please spread the word if you can. It goes without saying, the more people we can protect from risk the better.

Let’s have a look at two of the most common scams.

Christmas Scam Alerts Phishing emails

Be aware and to echo some of the dogs stickers and posters you see, phishing emails are not just for Christmas. But, like all scams, Christmas creates a frenzied hunting ground for scammers everywhere. So, this is something that you should be cautious about the whole year round, not just at Christmas.

Let’s get into some of the detail and point out some of the things to be aware of.

Firstly, take the time to check each email you receive in your inbox. Particularly from unknown sources. To use an old adage, “if in doubt, stay out.” Or, in the case of a suspicious looking email, don’t open it.

This warning is not only aimed at your own personal email account. You may also receive strange looking emails in your work inbox. Keep an eye out for all warnings and security messages from your work’s IT department if you have one.

Recognise the importance of being thorough. As a failure to do so could see bank accounts or data becoming compromised.

What To Look Out For

With regard to phishing emails, here are some points to take note of:

The sender’s name and address. Have a close look at the senders email address. Take note, address spoofing is possible, so this alone does not prove that the email came from a legitimate source.
The layout of the email – Does it look similar to communications you have previously received from that legitimate individual or business brand before? Be aware of the email greeting. Greetings like “Dear Customer” are a definite ‘no-no.”
The wording of the email. Emails that are poorly written English can be a big indicator that the sender is not legitimate. Check for badly worded phrases, or a strange message layout. Such as no punctuation or paragraph breaks. Being aware of an expected layout style should keep you on guard.
Links or attachments. In no way whatsoever should you open a link or attachment until you have verified the email. If in doubt, contact the company or individual directly. They should be able to help you out. If they confirm they haven’t sent it then there’s the answer as to what you should do. Bin it!! Or ignore it. Or, mark the email as spam and delete it. Marking it as spam may well mean any further emails from the same address will end up in your spam folder.
Look at the context of the email. Have you ever entered an online lottery? If not, then no you haven’t won. And if you are not acquainted with a previously unknown Prince from a far off country, then the offer of millions to help with an attractive sounding transaction will cause you a lot of grief, not financial fortunes.

Dodgy Deals With Unknown Royalty

With regard to this particular scam, I actually know someone who got caught up with a scam of this type. It was quite a few years, so there may have been a bit of newness about these scams. The upshot of all the fake correspondence he got involved with and the monies he paid out ultimately cost the poor fella his business. And a lot of money and also nearly his marriage. So, take heed.

Christmas Scam Alerts – Fake gift cards

Gift card Christmas scams can operate in several ways. In the legit world, buying gift cards for your friends, family or colleagues can be a great idea. But, before you do fork out any hard earned wonga, be aware of these points.

When buying gift cards, make sure that the number that displays at the till is the same one on the back of the card. On occasions, scammers may cover up the legitimate barcode with one of their own so that you pay for the balance, but it is activated on their card.

Even buying gift cards online can be problematic. If a vendor appears to be selling gift cards for less than they are worth, you should avoid shopping there. There is a possibility that you will part with your bank details but in actual fact, receive nothing in return. A harsh lesson to learn.

A similar thing can be said for fake websites. These type of websites may claim that they can check how much is left on an existing card. This may require you to put in personal details, including that of the gift card or even payment card you used to buy the item.

Even though you may be given the correct balance, the scammer would then have all the information they need to use your card. Not only that, also potentially gain access to other information to clone your payment card.

Chester Lifestyle Blog Posts

Thanks for reading my latest blog post – Christmas Scam Alerts Part One. Let’s all try and stay safe this festive period. And, as it is a public warning alert message, please spread the word if you can.

To see all of my other blog posts on a variety of topics, then visit HERE.

And going off on a complete tangent and as this is Chester related website. Here’s another “help support a local small business” section. And somewhere you can shop safely and securely.

As This Is A Chester Related Website

As this is a Chester related website, you may be looking for the ideal Chester related gift for your loved ones. If so, then have a look at my Chester section of my new Etsy store. You can find out more about my Etsy store HERE.

Plenty of originally created downloadable digital artwork for you to have a look at HERE. And, as I say, a variety of Chester related products to choose from. Go on….you know you want to!!

Also, talking of safe online shopping……

Please Note

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