5 CLEVER TRICKS HOLIDAY SCAMMERS USE

Beware of These Scams

1. Fake Order Confirmations:
   Scammers send messages like, “Your package couldn’t be delivered!” and include a link to reschedule. Clicking it takes you to a fake site that asks for personal details like your address or credit card info.

2. Bogus Giveaways:
   Offers like “Win $1,000!” lure you in with quick forms, only to steal your email, phone number, and other personal information. Only enter giveaways from trusted sources (like me!).

3. Search Engine Traps:
   Searching for store websites or return policies might land you on a scammy duplicate site designed to steal your login info. Always type the website address directly or scroll past sponsored results, which are more prone to hacking.

4. Skimmed Checkout Pages:
   Checkout pages may look legitimate, but skimmers behind the scenes can steal your credit card information.

5. Bogus CAPTCHA Forms:
   After checking “I’m not a robot,” scammers may ask you to download a file for “instructions.” That file installs malware on your device.

Max’s Holiday Safety Checklist

You can outsmart these scams with a few precautions:

• Don’t Buy Without Protection: Use secure payment methods like PayPal, which offer protections against fraud.

• Verify Before You Buy: If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Stick to trusted, established retailers.

• Double-Check URLs: Before entering personal details, ensure the web address starts with https:// and avoid odd spellings or unusual domains like .biz or .top.

• Delete Suspicious Emails: Don’t click links in emails about missed deliveries or order updates. Instead, go directly to the store or carrier’s website.

• Avoid Debit Cards: Use credit cards or PayPal instead, as they offer better fraud protections. Avoid sites that require debit cards, bank transfers, or payment apps.

Stay Safe with Strong Antivirus Protection

Even the smartest users can be tricked, so robust antivirus software is essential for online safety.

• Powerful Malware Protection: Tools like Windows Defender scan for viruses, ransomware, and other threats, removing them before they cause harm.

• Real-Time Defense: Programs like Windows Defender block suspicious activity the moment it happens, keeping your devices safe.

• System Optimization: These tools also improve your device’s performance by clearing junk files and freeing up space.

It’s easy to protect yourself. Tools like Windows Defender are user-friendly, so you don’t need to be a tech expert to stay secure. For tips on removing viruses from your Windows computer, check out this guide.

Stay one step ahead of hackers and shop online with confidence!