The holiday season is here—a time for joy, celebration, and finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. But as excitement builds, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush of shopping. Unfortunately, scammers are just as active as shoppers, especially on social media. Some impersonate real companies or run ads for popular brand-name products at unusually low prices. Clicking these links could lead to fake websites that take your money in exchange for counterfeit items, products that look nothing like the ad, or sometimes, nothing at all.
The good news? With a little research and awareness, you can enjoy a safer, smoother, and more meaningful shopping experience—and avoid falling into these traps. Stay vigilant, shop smart, and make this holiday season memorable for all the right reasons.
When you are shopping online, here are some ways to protect yourself during the holidays and year-round:
- Research: Before making a purchase, look up the seller’s name and the website from the ad, along with keywords like “review,” “complaint,” or “scam” to see what others have to say.
- Pay By Credit Card: When possible, pay with a credit card. This gives you protection if you are charged twice, billed for an item you never received, or sent the wrong or damaged product, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company.
- Keep Records: Saving your receipt and order confirmation can make it easier to get a refund if something goes wrong. Remember, sellers are required to ship your order by the date they promise—or provide a way for you to get your money back.
As you enjoy the holidays with your family, please stay alert and protect your identity. Visit Known Scams to Avoid on our website to review and remind yourself how to stay mindful of these scams.
Staff, BCP. “How to Avoid an Online Shopping Scam This Holiday Season.” Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice, 25 Nov. 2025, consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/11/how-avoid-online-shopping-scam-holiday-season.
