The holiday season brings shopping, travel, gift giving, and plenty of distractions. Unfortunately, those same conditions can create opportunities for fraud. With online orders, deliveries, travel reservations, and a steady stream of emails and text messages, an unusual transaction or suspicious message is easy to overlook.
When something feels off
Our Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is trained to spot inconsistencies: identify red flags, verify information, and follow the facts. You can use the same mindset.
A delivery notice for something you don’t remember ordering? Pause.
A travel deal dramatically different from everything else you’ve found? Verify it.
An unexpected request for payment or personal information? Ask questions.
A charge on your account you don’t recognize? Look into it.
Not every unusual situation is fraud, but noticing when something doesn’t make sense is an important first step in protecting yourself.
Small steps that add up
Fraud prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can make a difference:
- Instead of clicking links in unexpected messages, go directly to the retailer’s or carrier’s website or app to check on an order or payment.
- Before entering payment information, confirm you are on the legitimate site of the retailer, airline, hotel, or travel provider.
- Be wary of pressure to “act now,” especially when paired with an unusually low price.
- Review bank and credit card activity regularly and report unfamiliar transactions promptly.
- If someone contacts you unexpectedly, reach out to the company using a phone number or website you find yourself before sharing any personal or financial information.
At SIU, we know fraud often starts small. A moment of awareness can go a long way toward protecting you during the holidays.
