
Scams: Common Holiday Tricks and How to Avoid Them
Scams are a frequent problem during the holiday season, both Christmas and New Year. These times, full of shopping, celebrations and promotions, are fertile ground for scammers, who take advantage of the rush, trust and digital traffic to deceive people. Below, we show you the most common scams during these holidays and how to protect yourself.
Christmas Scams
1. Fraudulent offers
Scammers create fake websites or promote fraudulent tickets. Only make purchases from official sites or recognized distributors. Always verify that the tickets or products have the corresponding certifications.
Be wary of excessive discounts or promotions that seem too good to be true.
2. Second-hand platforms
Applications such as Wallapop, Vinted or eBay can be used for scams. Do not send money outside the platform and check the seller’s reviews before making any payment.
3. Fraudulent e-mails (phishing)
During the holiday season, it is common to receive emails that appear to be from stores, banks or parcel services. Avoid entering personal information in suspicious email links and always verify the authenticity of the sender.
New Year scams
1. Fake reservations
Many people plan to travel or attend events in the New Year. Scammers post fake advertisements for hotels, vacation rentals or tickets to exclusive parties. Always confirm reservations directly with suppliers and avoid making payments by bank transfer.
2. Fake sweepstakes and promotions
On social networks, there is a proliferation of New Year’s sweepstakes that ask for personal data or payments to claim prizes. Be wary of any contest that asks for sensitive information.
3. Impersonation in digital services
Scammers may impersonate streaming service companies, gyms or New Year’s subscriptions to renew supposed memberships. Always verify applications before making payments.
4. Calls from scammers
In the New Year, it is common to receive calls from fake agents offering exclusive promotions. Never share banking information or make immediate payments without verifying the authenticity of the call.
General tips to avoid scams
- Verify Web sites: Make sure the URL begins with “https://” and has a security lock.
- Be wary of what seems too good: Overly generous offers are often a hook for scams.
- Don’t share unnecessary personal data: Legitimate companies do not ask for sensitive data through emails or calls.
- Research before you buy: Check reviews, opinions of other users and legal data of the store or service.
Protecting yourself from scams during Christmas and New Year requires caution and attention to detail. Stay calm, verify all information and enjoy the holidays without worries.
Prepare for a safe New Year!
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