12 holiday scams experts say to be aware of this season

A person is shown online shopping during the holidays in this file image.

If you’re juggling gift lists, deliveries and last-minute deals, experts warn scammers are just as busy, and they’re counting on holiday distractions to make their schemes harder to spot.

Scammers have become craftier, more convincing, and seek out opportunity. Experts warn scammers target seniors who can often be more trusting, less familiar with ever-changing technology, or more likely to answer the phone.

Still, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) stresses no single person is immune, adding scammers only care about who will click, pay, or share information without too many questions.

To help you avoid becoming a victim, the CAFC rolled out its ’12 Frauds of the Holidays’ list to highlight the seasonal tricks that tend to resurface each year.

Online Shopping

According to a recent release by the CAFC, online shopping scams continue to be one of the biggest issues.

The agency says fraudsters often promote brand-name items at unusually low prices, and urges shoppers to slow down and research sellers.

It warns that counterfeit goods aren’t just disappointing, some may pose health risks.

Selling Goods

The CAFC says problems also show up when people sell items online.

Fraudsters may offer to buy something without seeing it, pay more than the asking price, or create complicated payment instructions.

The agency advises sellers to make sure funds are legitimate before shipping anything.

Shipping

Shipping frauds are circulating, too.

The CAFC says unsolicited messages pretending to be from major delivery companies are asking for personal information or extra payments tied to supposed “failed” deliveries.

In some cases, the scammers even invent fake courier names.

Promos

Cellphone promotion scams are also on the rise, according to the agency.

Fraudsters pose as wireless providers offering discounted phones for the holidays.

The CAFC says they collect personal information, order real devices under the victim’s name, and may intercept the shipment.

Investments

Investment scams, especially those involving cryptocurrency, remain a problem.

The CAFC says scammers use social media, fake websites and even random text messages to lure people in.

They may ask for remote access to devices, help set up accounts, and promise guaranteed profits.

Romance

Romance scams also increase during the holidays.

The Centre says fraudsters avoid meeting in person but continue to ask for money.

The agency reminds people not to send funds to anyone they haven’t met face-to-face.

Recovery

The CAFC says scammers also pretend to help victims recover earlier losses.

These fake “recovery agents” ask for fees or sensitive details, causing even more financial harm.

Gift Cards

Gift card scams are another concern.

The Centre warns buyers to check for tampering, avoid resale sites, and remember that legitimate businesses won’t demand gift cards as payment.

Donating

Charity frauds also become more common at this time of year.

The CAFC encourages donors to confirm the organization’s charitable registration number with the Canada Revenue Agency before giving.

Prizes

Prize and vacation scams continue to target Canadians.

According to the CAFC, victims are told they’ve won large prizes or trips but must first pay fees or provide personal details.

The agency reminds people that they can’t win contests they never entered.

Phishing

The Centre also warns about fake toll fee or traffic infraction texts, which contain malicious links and urgent language.

It says real toll agencies don’t demand immediate payment by text message.

Identity

Identity theft remains an ongoing issue during the holiday rush.

The CAFC urges people to protect PINs, keep wallets secure, and watch for unauthorized account activity.

What to Do

Anyone who thinks they’ve been targeted by fraud or cybercrime should contact their local police. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre says incidents can also be reported online through the Report Cybercrime and Fraud website or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.