Stay Safe from Holiday Scams
Stay Safe from Holiday Scams: Protect Your Finances During the Gift-Giving Season
The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes a flurry of online shopping, Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, and the excitement of finding the perfect gifts for loved ones. However, the holidays are also a prime time for cybercriminals to take advantage of the shopping rush, launching scams that can compromise your personal information and drain your finances.
At Hoyne Savings Bank, we’re committed to helping you protect your accounts from these holiday scams. As part of our mission to keep you safe, we’ve put together some tips on how to avoid common scams and enjoy a secure, stress-free holiday season.
1. Watch Out for Fake Shopping Websites and Phony Deals
With so many discounts and promotions flooding your inbox and social media feeds during the holiday season, it can be hard to tell a legitimate deal from a scam. Cybercriminals create fake websites that look like well-known retailers, offering “unbeatable” prices to lure in unsuspecting shoppers.
Before making a purchase, double-check the website URL to make sure it’s legitimate. Look for security indicators, such as a padlock icon next to the URL and “https” in the address. Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true—if a deal sounds unbelievable, it likely is. We encourage our customers to use our secure credit and debit card options, which offer protection against unauthorized purchases. If you suspect fraudulent activity, contact us right away so we can help you resolve the issue.
2. Beware of Phishing Emails and Text Messages
Holiday-themed phishing emails and texts often look like legitimate promotions or shipping notifications from well-known retailers. These messages typically urge you to click on a link or download an attachment to claim a deal, confirm a delivery, or verify your account details. Once you engage, scammers can install malware on your device or steal your personal information.
Always be cautious when opening emails or texts from unfamiliar sources, especially if they prompt you to act quickly. Hover over links to see the real URL, and avoid downloading attachments unless you’re sure of their legitimacy.
We will never ask for your personal information via email or text. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from us, please report it immediately to ensure your account’s security.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods
Using secure payment methods can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to holiday scams. Stick to trusted platforms when shopping online, and avoid using direct wire transfers or prepaid cards, as these methods are difficult to trace if a purchase turns out to be fraudulent.
At Hoyne Savings Bank, our credit and debit cards come with built-in fraud protection. You can also enable purchase alerts through our mobile banking app, allowing you to monitor transactions in real-time and quickly detect any unusual activity.
4. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Financial Transactions
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but can be vulnerable to hackers. Avoid making online purchases or accessing sensitive accounts while connected to public Wi-Fi at coffee shops, malls, or airports. Cybercriminals can easily intercept data on unsecured networks, putting your financial information at risk.
Instead, use a secure, private connection, such as your home Wi-Fi or mobile data, when making holiday purchases or checking your bank accounts.
5. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
It’s always a good idea to monitor your bank accounts regularly, but during the holiday season, it’s especially important. Keeping an eye on your account activity helps you spot unauthorized transactions or unusual spending patterns quickly, giving you the opportunity to take action before more damage is done.
The holiday season should be a time of celebration, not stress over financial security. By staying vigilant and following these cybersecurity tips, you can protect yourself from holiday scams and shop with confidence. We’re here to support you with secure online banking tools, fraud protection, and personalized service, so you can focus on what matters most this season—enjoying time with your loved ones.
Whether you’re making online purchases or simply monitoring your accounts, remember that we’re just a call or click away to help keep your finances safe. Wishing you a secure and joyful holiday season!