Why Holiday Scams Are So Convincing (and How to Avoid Them)
The holiday season is a time for shopping, gifting, family gatherings, and, unfortunately, online scams. Between November and December, cybercriminals are especially active. Why? Because we’re distracted, excited about deals, and often in a rush. That combination makes it easier for scammers to trick even the most careful shoppers.
1. Phantom stores: Too good to be true deals
Holiday promotions flood your feed, and suddenly you spot an unbelievable deal from what looks like a major brand. The website looks legit, the photos are real, the logo is familiar. You place an order, and nothing arrives.
That’s the anatomy of a phantom store. These fake websites mimic real brands by copying images, logos, colors, and even checkout pages. Their goal is not to ship your order, but to collect your payment and personal information.
How to avoid it:
Always double-check the URL. Look closely for extra letters, hyphens, or unusual domain endings. Only shop through official brand websites or verified social media links. If the prices seem unrealistically low, they probably are.
2. Fake delivery notifications
As soon as you place your real holiday orders, scammers take advantage of your expectation. They send you messages saying, “Your order couldn’t be delivered” or “We need more information.” The message includes a link that looks like it’s from a courier company or shopping app.
Clicking that link may install malware, steal your details, or lead you to a phishing website.
How to avoid it:
Don’t click links received by text or messaging apps unless you’re sure of the sender. Delivery notifications should match your actual orders. When in doubt, go directly to the retailer’s website and check your order status there.
3. Fake order emails
You receive an urgent email about an order issue, even if you didn’t make one. The email looks familiar and might even include branding from popular companies like Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart. The message pushes you to click a link to verify or track your order.
This is classic phishing. Scammers design these emails to look legitimate, but once you click, your personal information becomes their target.
How to spot a fake email:
Look for odd sender addresses, grammar mistakes, generic greetings, and pressure phrases like “final notice.” Avoid clicking links and instead go directly to your account on the official website.
4. Unwanted data exposure
Shopping online requires sharing some personal info. While some data collection is normal, some companies collect more than you expect. They can track your shopping habits and even predict your future purchases.
You can limit this by reviewing privacy settings when you sign up for an online store. Only share what’s necessary and request removal of data you no longer want companies to have.
How scammers find you
You don’t have to post your information publicly for scammers to find it. Every time you browse, shop, or sign up for something online, small pieces of data are collected. Over time, these pieces build a detailed profile that may include your age, location, purchase history, even family members.
These profiles are often bought, sold, or leaked. That’s why some scam messages feel very personalized. They might know your name, your recent order, or your city. They’re not guessing. They’re using your digital footprint.
How to stay safe this shopping season
Use strong and unique passwords
Create different passwords for each store or service. A password manager can help you keep track.
Double-check websites before buying
Hover over links before clicking. Legit retailers use secure https:// URLs and proper brand names.
Avoid public Wi-Fi when shopping
Never enter payment information while connected to public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Use credit cards or PayPal instead of debit cards
Credit cards offer stronger protection and make dispute processes easier.
Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
Even if someone gets your password, 2FA blocks them from accessing your accounts.
Keep your devices updated
Update your apps, browser, and operating system to close security gaps.
Monitor your bank and credit statements
Check your accounts regularly to spot suspicious transactions early.
Install antivirus protection
It can help identify malicious websites, block dangerous downloads, and protect you from hidden malware.
Final thoughts
The holiday season should be about joy, not stress. Scammers prey on distraction, excitement, and urgency, which are common during this time. By staying alert, slowing down, and knowing the warning signs, you can shop confidently and safely.
Stay informed, stay cautious, and let the only surprises this holiday season be the gifts under your tree.
