The holiday season is fast approaching– the time for family, festive cheer, and of course, hunting for bargains. Whether it’s snagging a deal on Black Friday or ticking off the Christmas gift list, there’s a certain excitement in finding the perfect price. But let me remind you – scammers love this time of year just as much as we do. They know we’re on the lookout for deals, and they’re ready to pounce with fake websites, dodgy emails, and all sorts of sneaky tricks.
I’ve seen so many people fall victim to online scams, and the stress it causes can take all the joy out of the holiday season. But the good news? With a few simple steps, you can shop safely, protect your finances, and still enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
- Watch Out for Fake Emails
Have you ever received an email claiming there’s a “problem with your delivery” or a “refund waiting for you”? Scammers have become masters at making these emails look legit, mimicking trusted retailers or couriers. A mate of mine got caught out last year by what he thought was a tracking email from a courier – it turned out to be a phishing scam. Luckily, he didn’t enter his bank details, but it was a close call.
Here’s how to stay safe:
- Check the sender’s email address: Fraudsters often use addresses that look real but have tiny differences (like “@amaz0n.co.uk” instead of “@amazon.co.uk”).
- Look for dodgy language: Poor grammar or awkward phrasing can be a red flag.
- Don’t click links in emails: If you’re unsure, go directly to the retailer’s website by typing their URL into your browser.
A little caution can save you a lot of hassle.
- Shop Securely Online
Sales like Black Friday are prime time for scammers to set up fake websites offering deals that are just too good to be true. I mean, would you believe a $20 gaming console? Probably not – but people fall for these traps every year.
Here’s how to shop safely:
- Stick to trusted retailers: If you’re trying a new site, check reviews first.
- Look for “https://” and a padlock icon: These show the site is secure.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi: Scammers can exploit these networks to steal your details.
A quick double-check before you buy can make all the difference.
- Check Your Bank Statements
Even when you’re careful, it’s good to stay on top of your accounts during big shopping events. Scammers can slip through, and you might not notice until weeks later.
After a shopping spree, make it a habit to:
- Review your bank statements: Look for any unfamiliar transactions.
- Set up transaction alerts: Many banks let you receive real-time notifications for card activity.
If something looks suspicious, contact your bank straight away. They can block your card and help you recover funds if needed.
- Keep Your Spending in Check
We all love a good bargain, but it’s easy to get carried away. I once had a client tell me he’d gone a bit wild during the Christmas sales – buying things he didn’t really need just because they were “on sale.” Come January, he was stressed out trying to pay it all off.
To avoid this:
- Set a spending limit: Decide how much you can afford and stick to it.
- Make a list: Know what you’re looking for before you start shopping.
It’s about balance – enjoying the sales without feeling guilty or stretched later.
- Be Wary of Subscription Scams
Some retailers sneakily sign you up for subscriptions during checkout. It’s the fine print we often skip over. A friend of mine found herself signed up for a monthly payment for a service she didn’t even realise she’d agreed to – all because she didn’t read the terms at checkout.
To avoid this:
- Read the terms and conditions carefully.
- Keep an eye on your accounts: Look for recurring payments you didn’t agree to, and cancel them immediately.
- Spread the Word
We all know someone who’s less tech-savvy – maybe a parent, a neighbour, or a friend. Why not share these tips with them? A quick chat about common scams could save them from a costly mistake.
Shop Smart, Stay Safe
Scammers don’t just come out during the holidays – online fraud is a year-round threat. But by being cautious and proactive, you can shop with confidence, enjoy the season, and protect your hard-earned money.
Remember, it’s not about avoiding shopping altogether – it’s about shopping smart. Your future self (and your bank balance) will thank you for it. So, enjoy the sales, find those bargains, and stay safe out there.
Happy shopping!
All the best on your journey to living a financially well life!
Marc Bineham – Speaker, Coach and award-winning author of The Money Sandwich