Holiday Scams

Holiday scams aim to trick you into giving up money, gift cards, or sensitive information.

Fraudsters pose as familiar individuals, claiming an urgent problem and pressuring you to take immediate action by following specific payment instructions.

Phishing Scams

Fraudsters will send you an email or a pop-up message that appears to be from a trusted company that you deal with – your credit card company, credit union, or a government agency. These messages typically request that you update or validate account information, redirecting you to a fake website that looks real. The purpose of the bogus website is to deceive you into entering your personal information so the scammers can steal your identity and commit crimes in your name. Learn more about phishing.

Charitable Giving Scams

Charity scams may happen at any time, but they often occur after disasters or emergencies. Scams may be linked to current events, hurricanes, or cancer research, or they may be tied to your past giving history. Criminals may impersonate legitimate organizations, while other con artists use a carefully crafted charity name to deceive you. Scammers may use social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, fake websites, emails, or even go door-to-door to get you to part with your hard-earned money.

Research charities on trusted platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to verify their legitimacy. Be cautious of unsolicited requests, avoid clicking links in emails or texts, use secure payment methods like a credit card, and never feel pressured to give.

Package Delivery Notification Scam

Scammers send messages saying your package couldn’t be delivered or that they tried to deliver but there is a problem with the shipping address. These sneaky texts and emails often come with a tracking link, tempting you to update your details. Be cautious! Clicking that link could lead you to shady sites asking for your personal info or even cause malware to sneak onto your device. 

Be cautious! Do not click the link or reply. Determine if the message is authentic by signing in to your account on the merchant's site to check order history and delivery information. If you checked out as a guest, review your confirmation email.

Gift Card Scam

Did you know that a recent AARP survey found that about 13 million folks in the U.S. have fallen for gift card scams? Scammers often request payment through popular gift cards like Amazon and Target. Remember, no legitimate business or government agency will ask for payment in this way!

If you’ve accidentally shared your gift card info, don’t worry—just reach out to the gift card company right away using your receipt

Imposter Scams

Fraudsters portray themselves as family members or friends urgently seeking monetary help. They may request funds through online money transmission services, cryptocurrency transfers, or wire transfers. Stay vigilant and verify the authenticity of such requests before taking action. Learn more about impersonations.

Tips To Protect Yourself

1)   New! Use Card Services within Digital Banking to quickly activate or deactivate your card at your convenience.
2)  Check your transactions and statements regularly within Digital Banking.
3)  Set up account alerts.
4)  Use your credit card or Digital Wallet to make more secure payments.
5)  Reminder: We will NEVER contact you by phone, email, or through social media to solicit confidential, personal, and/or account information. This includes Digital Banking credentials, personal identification numbers, one-time passwords, or debit or credit card information (expiration date or CVV number).

Watch this video to learn more about imposter scams.

Magnifi Financial is committed to arming you with the necessary tools and information to protect yourself. Check out our fraud prevention resource page to learn more.