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As the festive season approaches, many look forward to celebrating with family and friends, exchanging gifts, and enjoying holiday traditions. However, it’s also a time when scammers ramp up their efforts, targeting vulnerable individuals, particularly older adults. Here’s what you need to know about common holiday scams in Michigan, how to protect yourself, and what steps to take if you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam.

Common Holiday Scams

Charity Scams: Many people feel generous during the holidays, but scammers exploit this goodwill by posing as fake charities. They may call, email, or even visit your home, claiming to collect donations for a worthy cause.

Online Shopping Scams: With an increase in online shopping, especially this time of year, scammers create fake websites or social media ads offering enticing deals that lead to counterfeit products or stolen credit card information.

Gift Card Scams: Scammers often request payment through gift cards, claiming they are needed to settle debts or avoid legal trouble. Once the card information is shared, it can’t be recovered.

Phishing Scams: During the holidays, be wary of unsolicited emails or texts from businesses claiming to offer discounts or promotions. These messages may contain links that, if clicked, can install malware on your device or steal your personal information.

Impersonation Scams: Scammers might impersonate family members or friends in distress, claiming they need money for an emergency. They may use social media or even spoof phone numbers to appear legitimate.

How to Prevent Being Scammed

• Research Charities: Before donating, verify the charity through resources like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance to ensure they are legitimate.
• Shop Securely: Stick to well-known websites for online shopping and look for secure payment options. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true and check for customer reviews before making purchases.
• Be Skeptical of Gift Cards: Never pay for anything using gift cards, especially if someone you don’t know well requests it. Legitimate businesses will offer various payment methods.
• Verify Communications: If you receive unexpected messages from someone claiming to be a relative or friend, reach out to them directly using known contact information to verify their situation. Ahead of the holidays, you might want to establish a family ‘safe word’ to verify identity in these situations.
• Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scams by visiting websites like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Michigan Department of Attorney General. Knowledge is your best defense.

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed

1. Stay Calm: It can be alarming to realize you may have been scammed. Take a moment to collect your thoughts and avoid making any rash decisions.
2. Report the Scam: Contact your local police department and report the scam to the Michigan Attorney General’s office. You can also report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Reporting helps authorities track and combat scams.
3. Notify Your Bank: If you’ve provided financial information, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report the incident and discuss steps to protect your accounts.
4. Change Your Passwords: If you believe your online accounts may be compromised, change your passwords immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security.
5. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report any suspicious activity right away.

Conclusion

As you celebrate the holiday season, take a moment to be vigilant against potential scams. By staying informed and proactive, you can enjoy this joyful time with peace of mind. Remember, if something feels off, trust your instincts and take action to protect yourself. Happy holidays, and stay safe!