12/11/2025

We’re spotlighting seven common holiday scams — what they look like, how to identify them, and how to protect yourself and your members.

Non-Delivery Scam
What it is: Fraudsters advertise products online, take payment, and never deliver.
Red flags: Too-good-to-be-true deals, sellers demanding payment via gift cards or wire transfers.
Protection: Verify sellers, use trusted platforms, and avoid unusual payment methods.

Fake/Cloned Websites & Fraud Social Media Ads
What it is: Fraudsters create lookalike websites or ads that mimic legitimate retailers.
Red flags: Misspelled URLs, poor-quality images, limited contact information.
Protection: Type web addresses directly and avoid clicking suspicious ads.

Secret Shopper Job Scam
What it is: Victims are “hired” as mystery shoppers, receive fraudulent checks, and are asked to send money back.
Red flags: Upfront payments, unsolicited job offers, checks that clear then bounce.
Protection: Legitimate companies never ask shoppers to send money back.

Fraud Checks
What it is: Counterfeit checks trick victims into depositing them.
Holiday Context: Financial pressures around holiday spending can make members more vulnerable. Some may knowingly or unknowingly deposit fraudulent checks, hoping to cover expenses.
Red flags: Checks from unknown sources, urgent instructions to wire funds after deposit.
Protection: Funds availability ≠ check validity. Pause and ask your credit union about the check before depositing it.

Fake Charity Scams
What it is: Fraudsters pose as charities during the giving season.
Red flags: High-pressure solicitations, vague mission statements, requests for gift card donations.
Protection: Verify charities through trusted sites (e.g., Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance).

Fake Vacation or Prize Giveaways
What it is: Victims are told they’ve “won” a trip or prize but must pay fees upfront.
Red flags: Requests for taxes/fees before travel, vague prize details, unsolicited notifications.
Protection: Legitimate sweepstakes never require upfront payments.

Fraud Package Emails/Texts
What it is: Fake delivery notifications trick victims into clicking malicious links.
Red flags: Generic greetings, misspellings, links that don’t match official carriers.
Protection: Track packages directly with carriers and avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages.
What to Do If You Fall Victim
• Report fraud immediately to the credit union and relevant authorities.
• Place fraud alerts or credit freezes with credit bureaus.
• Change compromised passwords and monitor accounts closely.
Protection: Use strong passwords, shop only on trusted sites, and be cautious with unsolicited offers.

Key Takeaway
Fraud thrives during the holidays because people are busy, distracted, and financially stretched. Awareness and empathy are the best defenses!