The holiday season can be the most wonderful time of year for scammers to commit fraud. Why? Holiday shoppers are busy, distracted, and looking for deep discounts. With so much going on, shoppers may let their guard down and fall victim to scams during the holiday season.

According to the 2025 AARP Holiday Shopping and Scams Report, 89 percent of U.S. consumers have experienced fraud.

Common holiday scams

It’s important to stay alert all year long, especially in the months leading up to the holiday season. Scammers will offer you discounts that seem too good to be true, impersonate real brands, pose as charities, and more.

A few habits can help make you a harder target for scammers. Stay alert for these 5 types of holidays (and year-round) scams:

1. To-good-to-be true deals: If it’s too good to be true, it is likely a scam. Scammers attract shoppers with unusually steep discounts, limited time offers, and prices too good to pass up. 
   TIP: Remember, a 70 percent discount is a red flag, not a bargain. Do not let a bargain rush your decision. Do not click on suspicious offers! Visit trusted retailer websites to verify the offer or search for other deals before making a decision.
2. Fake retailer ads: Scammers create social media ads and influencer posts promoting stores that do not exist. Scammers run these fake ads to trick shoppers into sharing credit card information and personal details. 
   TIP: Be cautious of unfamiliar retailers promoted through social media. Close the suspicious ad, research the business and go to the retailer’s website.
3. Package and delivery scams: Scammers send texts or emails claiming there’s a “delivery issue.” The messages may link to phony tracking websites or malware. Scammers may also call your phone. 
   TIP: Do not click on the tracking link. Delete it immediately and block the caller. Or, simply hang up your phone and report the call as spam with your mobile provider. Check delivery directly through the retailer or shipping company’s official website or app.
4. Fake charities: Scammers will impersonate charitable organizations and ask for donations through a bank transfer, gift card, or pre-paid card. 
   TIP: Do not respond. Donate directly to charities you know and trust. Research unfamiliar organizations before giving.

Stay protected this holiday season

The best defense against fraud is a good offense—staying alert. This holiday season, remember to pause before you click a link, answer an unfamiliar call, or respond to a message.

Learn more about common types of fraud at civicfcu.org/security

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, contact your financial institution as soon as possible. If you suspect fraudulent activity on your Civic account, contact the Experience Center at 844-772-4842.