The holiday season is a time for giving, but it’s also peak time for fraudsters. Online shopping, fake charities, and travel scams spike during the holidays. Goldenwest Credit Union wants to help you enjoy the season safely.

Common Holiday Scams

•    Online shopping scams: Fake websites or social media ads offering “too-good-to-be-true” deals.
•    Fake charities: Scammers posing as nonprofits asking for donations.
•    Travel scams: Fraudulent vacation rentals, flights, or holiday packages.

Tips to Stay Safe

•    Shop from reputable websites and check for secure URLs (look for “https://”).
•    Verify charities through trusted platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar.
•    Be cautious with last-minute travel deals and always book through verified providers.
•    Use credit cards instead of debit cards for added protection.
•    Watch out for phishing emails and texts asking for personal or financial info.

The holidays should be joyful, not stressful. By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can protect your money and personal information while enjoying the season.