Any Time is the Season to be Wary

Mary Loftis

Holiday shoppers open their wallets to spend more money, and con artists try to find a way to take it. Learn how to protect yourself and your family from three scams that truly know no season.

1.  Holiday Charity Frauds

Beware of charities that don’t — or won’t — provide key information in writing. Con artists pose as agents for police, fire departments and others to get your credit card data or cash.

Take action: Learn how to spot charity scams.  Visit ftc.gov/charityfraud.

2.  Gift Card Scams

Crooks grab gift cards from a rack, and quickly write down or scan the cards’ serial numbers. A few days later, they call the gift card phone number to find out how much money is on the card. When the card reaches the gift recipient, the balance has been spent.

Take a closer look: Always carefully examine the gift card before you buy.

Buy direct: Steer clear from the display racks, and purchase gift cards from a customer service person, directly from the store issuing the gift card or from a secure retailer’s website.

3.  Fake Shopping Websites 

Watch out for fake online shopping sites that mimic legitimate businesses by using a similar Web name or URL. Look for ‘https’ in the prefix of the Web address and click on the ‘lock icon’ in the status bar of your browser to view the site’s security details.

Read the fine print: Be suspicious if the only payment method offered is by wiring your payment or using a debit card; if you pay this way, it is nearly impossible to get your money back. Check the refund policy.

Call your bank: If you think you have provided your financial details or sent money to a scammer, contact your financial institution immediately.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network website connects you to the latest information about ID theft and fraud so you can safeguard your personal information and your pocketbook no matter what age you are.

Share this alert with your family and friends so they know how to spot the common strategies scammers use and have the tools they need to defend themselves against their tricks.

Get help: If you or someone you know has been a victim of identity theft or fraud, contact the AARP Foundation Fraud Fighter Center at 877-908-3360 for help.

Mary Loftis,

Extension Assistant
UNL Extension – Burt County
111 North 13th Street, Suite 6
Tekamah, NE 68061
Phone: (402) 374-2929

Fax: (402) 374-2930

Internet: mloftis2@unl.edu