‘Tis the Season to Stay Vigilant: Common Holiday Scams to Watch Out For
‘Tis the Season to Stay Vigilant: Common Holiday Scams to Watch Out For
The holiday season is a time for generosity, connection, and celebration—but unfortunately, it’s also a favorite time of year for scammers. As people get busy shopping, traveling, and donating to good causes, cybercriminals and fraudsters ramp up their efforts to take advantage of distracted consumers.
At Elder Legal Solutions LLP in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we often hear from seniors, retirees, and families who have encountered scams that threaten not only their finances but also their peace of mind. As a trusted estate planning and elder law firm, we believe that protecting your assets includes protecting yourself from fraud. Awareness is the first—and best—line of defense.
Below are some of the most common seasonal scams to watch for this year, along with practical tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe.
1. Fake Charities
The holidays inspire many to give back, and scammers know it. Fraudsters create convincing websites or send emails pretending to be legitimate charities, often using names similar to real organizations. They may pressure you to donate quickly or ask for payment through gift cards or wire transfers.
How to stay safe:
Before giving, verify the organization through trusted sources like Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance. Be cautious of urgent requests, and never share personal or financial information over email or text. If you’re unsure, check with a family member or your elder law attorney before donating.
2. Too-Good-To-Be-True Online Shopping Deals
Scammers set up fake websites or social media ads offering luxury items or electronics at unbelievable discounts. After payment, the product never arrives—or you receive a low-quality counterfeit instead.
How to stay safe:
Stick to reputable retailers, and be wary of unfamiliar sites offering steep discounts. Always ensure the web address starts with “https” and check reviews before purchasing. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Fake Shipping Notices
With so many packages in transit during the holidays, scammers send fake shipping or delivery notifications that appear to come from well-known companies like UPS, FedEx, or Amazon. These messages often include links that install malware or lead to phishing sites asking for login details or credit card information.
How to stay safe:
Avoid clicking links in unsolicited shipping emails or texts. Instead, go directly to the carrier’s official website or app to track your package. If something feels off, it’s best to delete the message and contact the company directly.
4. Gift Card Fraud
Gift cards are a convenient way to give, but they’ve also become a popular tool for scammers. Some pose as a friend, family member, or even a government agency, asking you to buy gift cards and share the numbers. Others tamper with cards on store racks, stealing the funds after you load them.
How to stay safe:
Never pay anyone with a gift card—no legitimate business or government office will request that. When buying cards in-store, check for signs of tampering, and always keep your receipt until the card is used.
5. Imposter Calls and Emails
Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations, such as banks, government agencies, or even loved ones, to pressure victims into sending money or sharing sensitive information. During the holidays, it’s common to get calls claiming your grandchild is in trouble or that you owe a last-minute tax payment.
How to stay safe:
Hang up immediately and call the organization or person directly using a verified number. Never rely on contact information provided by the caller. Be skeptical of anyone who demands quick payment or threatens legal action.
6. Social Media “Holiday Giveaway” Scams
Fraudsters use fake social media accounts to promote giveaways or contests that ask for your personal information—or a small “processing fee.” These scams can lead to identity theft or unauthorized charges.
How to stay safe:
Avoid clicking on suspicious giveaway links. Check that the company’s account is verified before entering any contest. Legitimate businesses won’t ask for sensitive information or payments just to participate.
Stay Informed and Protect What Matters
Fraud prevention is part of protecting your financial future—just like estate planning. If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Florida Attorney General’s Office. Talk to friends and family, especially older relatives, about these common schemes so they can recognize warning signs early.
At Elder Legal Solutions LLP, we’re proud to help South Florida families safeguard their assets, estates, and legacies. Whether you’re preparing your will, setting up a trust, or simply seeking peace of mind, our experienced team is here to help you protect what matters most.
For more information on protecting your estate or to schedule a consultation, contact Elder Legal Solutions LLP in Fort Lauderdale, FL at (561) 814-8387.