The Most Common Holiday Scams
Scams are abound any time of year, but they tend to ramp up during the holiday season when people are a bit more free with their funds. Scammers are not just sitting behind computer screens. They are out and about at malls, airports and anywhere the general public can be found. Here are five of the top holiday scams to be on the lookout for.
1. Internet
You know about identity theft. You never store your financial information online, and you know to look for the https before a URL to ensure your safety. Unfortunately, people visit and purchase from shops they’ve never frequented before in search of just the right gift. Scammers know this and put up fake sites.
The websites look very professional and safe. The problem is you won’t know you’ve been scammed immediately. You may not even know you were scammed until you do some digging when your package never shows up. If you aren’t familiar with an online store, do a bit of research before you make a purchase.
2. Charities
People have a sense of giving around the holidays that they may not possess during the rest of the year. You will run into bell ringers at several stores, but are they all legitimate? The answer is no. If you want to give to a charity, you can do so online if you aren’t sure about that person standing outside of the store.
3. The Mall
You’re shopping in the mall and you’ve found some great items. You head to the checkout only to discover that your wallet is missing. It’s not uncommon for shoppers to fall victim to thieves, especially in large crowds. Keep your wallet in your front pocket and use a crossbody bag if you carry a purse.
4. Cash Registers
It’s not unusual for shoppers to be short-changed at the register, whether intentionally or not. Be aware of the approximate total of your items and how much change you should be getting back. Pay attention to the bills you are handing the clerk and wait patiently as they count your change. A hurried clerk is more likely to hand you the wrong amount of money.
5. At Home
You are expecting a package and think it is strange that the delivery driver left a note on your door instead of leaving the package. You shrug your shoulders and call the number on the notice. You’ve just been scammed. It doesn’t always happen like this, but it is more common than you may think. Before you make any phone calls, get online and check the tracking information for your package. Some of these phone numbers will find you waiting for hours on hold, racking up your phone bill the whole time.
If you are arrested for any crime in Orlando during the holiday season, we are here for you. Call our office today and schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation. We will review the details of your case and advise you of your options. Call today.