The run-up to Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year and not just for shoppers and delivery drivers. Sadly, it’s also peak season for scammers, who take advantage of the festive rush, generosity, and distractions that come with this busy time of year. Whether you’re shopping online, booking travel, or donating to a good cause, here’s how to spot the latest scams to keep your money and data safe.
1. Too good to be true deals
If you see a designer bag, games console, or smartphone advertised for a fraction of its usual price, take a step back. Fraudsters often create fake websites or social media ads promising unbelievable discounts.
Check before you buy:
- Visit the retailer’s website directly instead of clicking links from ads.
- Look for “https://” and the padlock symbol in your browser bar.
- Google the company name plus “scam” or “reviews” to see what others say.
2. Fake delivery notifications
With so many parcels on the move, scammers send fake delivery texts and emails claiming your parcel couldn’t be delivered or needs a redelivery fee.
Spot the signs:
- Be wary of messages asking you to click a link or enter payment details.
- Check the sender’s address carefully and remember a legitimate delivery company won’t ask for card details via text.
- Go directly to the courier’s official website or app if in doubt.
3. Gift card and voucher scams
Gift cards are a popular present and a favourite tool for scammers. You may receive an email or message saying you’ve won a voucher or be asked to pay a bill in gift cards.
Remember:
No legitimate company or government body will ever ask for payment in gift cards.
4. Charity scams
The festive season inspires generosity, and scammers exploit that goodwill with fake charities and fundraising appeals.
How to give safely
- Donate through the charity’s official website or a trusted platform.
- Check that the charity is registered with the Charity Commission.
- Be cautious of emotional pleas or pressure to donate quickly.
5. Social media marketplace traps
Facebook Marketplace, Vinted, and other platforms are filled with festive bargains but not all sellers are genuine.
Stay safe:
- Use secure in-app payment methods rather than bank transfers.
- Avoid sellers who refuse to meet in person or rush you to buy.
- Trust your instincts and if something feels off, walk away.
6. Subscription and streaming scams
From movie marathons to festive playlists, scammers send fake “subscription renewal” or “account suspension” emails from popular streaming services.
Check before you click:
- Don’t log in through email links instead go directly to the app or website.
- Look for typos, strange URLs, or unfamiliar branding in the email.
- Scams often use pressure tactics so beware of messages like “Your account will be deleted in 24 hours” or “Click now to keep your subscription”.
7. New Outlook calendar scam
A new tactic that is being exploited is a little-known Outlook feature. The scammer will send an appointment to you, which when received, Outlook will automatically add into your calendar. These fake appointments appear automatically as soon as the message is received even if you haven’t accepted or responded. The aim is to make the event look legitimate, as though you scheduled it yourself weeks or months ago, hoping you’ll trust it and take action.
To stop Outlook from automatically adding appointments from incoming emails to your calendar follow these steps:
- Open Outlook and go to File > Options > Mail.
- Under Tracking, untick Automatically process meeting requests and responses to meeting requests and polls.
- In the Send messages section, tick Delete meeting requests and notifications from Inbox after responding.
- Go to View > View Settings, then untick Automatically accept meeting requests and process cancellations.
The golden rule this Christmas: if it feels urgent, emotional, or too good to be true, it probably is.
If you need help making these adjustments or have any IT issues you need advice with, please get in touch.
