As the darker months approach, many of us turn to online shopping for convenience. With Christmas and Black Friday sales just around the corner, digital spending is set to surge. Unfortunately, scammers are well aware of this seasonal trend, and they’re ready to exploit it.
Fraud is on the rise across the country. According to UK Finance, almost £580 million was stolen through fraud in just the first half of 2023. The criminals behind these scams often target the elderly, the less digitally confident, or those distracted by the busy run-up to Christmas. Protecting your loved ones means staying alert, informed, and prepared.
Here are some practical steps to keep your family safe.
1. Be sceptical of “too good to be true” deals
Fraudsters flood social media and email inboxes with fake ads offering heavily discounted goods. These often lead to copycat websites designed to harvest bank details.
Tip: Encourage your family to only shop with reputable retailers and to check the website address carefully (look for spelling mistakes or odd domain endings like “.co” instead of “.co.uk”).
2. Watch out for delivery scams
With more parcels arriving at our doors, fake text messages claiming a package is “waiting for delivery” are rife. These messages often include links to fraudulent payment sites.
Tip: Remind loved ones never to click links in unsolicited texts. If in doubt, visit the courier’s official website directly.
3. Strengthen online security
Simple habits can make a world of difference. Weak passwords and reused logins are prime opportunities for criminals.
Tip: Encourage the use of three random words for passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and never share login details over the phone or email.
4. Talk openly with older relatives
Scammers thrive on secrecy and isolation. Older family members may be embarrassed to admit they’ve been approached.
Tip: Make scam awareness part of everyday conversation. Share news articles about fraud, and remind them it’s okay to check with you before acting on an email, call, or message.
5. Beware of investment and “cost-of-living” scams
During the winter months, fraudsters often prey on financial worries by promoting fake investment opportunities or bogus energy-saving schemes.
Tip: Remind your loved ones that if an investment promises unusually high returns or a “limited-time offer,” it’s likely a scam. Direct them to the Financial Conduct Authority’s warning list before making any financial decisions.
6. Report and recover quickly
If someone does fall victim, acting fast can limit the damage. Banks in the UK have fraud departments trained to help.
Tip: Call the bank immediately, then report the scam to Action Fraud (the UK’s national reporting centre) on 0300 123 2040 or via their website.
Final thought
As the nights draw in, we naturally focus on keeping our homes warm and welcoming. But protecting our digital doorsteps is just as important. By encouraging open conversations, strengthening online habits, and staying alert to seasonal scams, we can make sure that fraudsters are kept firmly out in the cold.