News and Events

Common Holiday Fraud Trends & How to Protect Yourself

1. Online Shopping Scams
Fraudsters set up fake websites and send phishing emails offering too-good-to-be-true deals. These scams affect individuals looking for gifts and businesses stocking up on supplies or gifts for employees.
How to Protect Yourself:

• Consumers: Shop only on trusted websites with "https" and a padlock icon. Use credit cards for added fraud protection.
• Businesses: Train employees to recognize phishing emails and ensure all company purchases are made through verified vendors.

2. Charity Scams
Scammers exploit the season of giving, posing as fake charitable organizations to solicit donations. They target individuals and businesses that make end-of-year contributions for tax purposes.
How to Protect Yourself:

• Consumers: Research charities through sites like Charity Navigator. Avoid unsolicited requests for donations via email or phone.
• Businesses: Verify charitable organizations before making corporate donations. Keep detailed records of contributions for financial security and compliance.

3. Package Delivery Scams
Fake delivery notifications claiming issues with shipments are common during the holiday season, targeting consumers waiting on gifts and businesses expecting supply shipments.
How to Protect Yourself:

• Consumers: Track packages only through official delivery company websites or apps. Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
• Businesses: Use account-based tracking with shipping companies and educate employees to report suspicious emails.

4. Travel Fraud
Scammers promote fraudulent deals for personal holiday travel or business trips, stealing payment details in the process.
How to Protect Yourself:

• Consumers: Book travel only through reputable platforms and verify offers that seem too good to be true.
• Businesses: Establish a corporate travel policy requiring bookings through approved vendors or travel agencies.

5. Gift Card Fraud
Fraudsters pressure individuals and businesses into purchasing gift cards for fake emergencies or incentives, then request card numbers and PINs.
How to Protect Yourself:

• Consumers: Never share gift card information with someone you don’t know or trust.
• Businesses: Monitor employee purchasing protocols to prevent unauthorized gift card purchases and implement fraud detection systems.

Fraud doesn’t take a holiday, but by staying vigilant and following these tips, you can protect yourself and your business. Keystone Bank is here to help, offering tools and services tailored to your needs. For more information about our fraud protection solutions, visit our Banking Security page today.

Enjoy a safe and successful holiday season with Keystone Bank by your side!