Holiday Season Mail Scams

Holiday Season Mail Scams

As the holiday season fast approaches, we may feel overwhelmed with all the added stress and excitement that this time of year can bring. Did I remember to get gifts for everyone on my list? Will I be able to score the “hot” toy my kid’s been talking about since summer? When will the best deals become available, and will there be enough time to complete my holiday shopping?

While our minds may race trying to answer all of the above, it’s important to be cautious when crossing those “wants” off our wish lists. Stay alert and educated on the different types of holiday season mail scams that start to ramp up as we head into the cooler months.

Tracking Updates and Suspicious Messages

You’ve just scored the latest hot item for the holiday season, and you can’t wait for it to be delivered. You see a text or email that looks like a shipping update from USPS, FedEx, or UPS. Without thinking, you click on the link in the message to track your package. Then, suddenly you’re being asked for personal information.

Fraudsters know that, at this time of year, many of us are patiently (or not so patiently) awaiting our deliveries, and they will send messages claiming to be from a trusted mail carrier with important information about a delivery. If you happen to open and click on one of these phony messages, remember that you’ll never need to provide personal information through email or text to get a status update on your package.

Porch Poachers

Maybe you got a little carried away when your favorite retailer was having a major sale. Or maybe you successfully crossed multiple family members off your list during an online shopping spree. Try to schedule deliveries for days when you know you will be home. If you’re never around during the workday, consider shipping items to a neighbor that works from home. Unattended packages left outside for extended periods can be too tempting for thieves to pass up.

Holiday Travel

If you’re planning to be away for the holidays, or really anytime, consider asking family or friends to stop by to collect your mail until you return. Especially around the holidays, loved ones may send checks, cash, or gift cards as gifts. If you haven’t received an expected check, credit card, or other valuable in the mail, ask the sender if it can be tracked as soon as possible. Letting mail pile up gives fraudsters and thieves an opportunity to swoop in.

While it can be easy to get caught up in the magic of the season, it’s important not to let your guard down. Stay informed on common holiday season mail scams. Remember that we will never call, email or text you asking for personal information like usernames, Online Banking passwords, or account numbers. If you receive a message like this, hang up, and please call us directly.