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11/27/2024 8:00:00 AM | Money Matters

Protect yourself from scams: Tips for safer holiday shopping

Don’t let fraudsters steal your joy — or your money

Each year, the holidays see an increase in theft and fraudulent activities. Fraudsters employ every trick and technique in the book — just short of stealing presents from under the tree — to take advantage of charitable spirits and the busy shopping season.

The first step to protecting yourself is understanding the types of scams fraudsters employ.

Recognize common holiday scams and learn how to avoid them

  • Bank Impersonation Scam:Scammers contact their victim over the phone or by text or email, pretending to be the bank needing to confirm a transaction. They claim the transaction was flagged as fraudulent and ask for card details for verification. Never provide these numbers or any personal information over the phone or through a link. Always verify the source by contacting your bank directly using the number on the back of your card or by going directly to the bank’s official website.

    And remember: Your bank will never call you for a Secure Access Code. They also will never call you with instructions to confirm that a transaction is valid.
  • Phony Delivery Scam:Scammers send a fake delivery notification via email or text, claiming there is an issue with a package. These messages often include links to phishing sites designed to steal your personal information. Verify notifications by checking the sender’s email address or phone number and avoid clicking on links. Use secure delivery practices like package tracking and signature confirmation to prevent package theft.
  • Seasonal Job Scam:Scammers post fake ads on job sites, offering high pay for minimal work. They may ask for personal details upfront, such as your Social Security number or bank account numbers, claiming this information is required to process your application. Research the job offer and the company. Do not share sensitive information until you have verified the company and the legitimacy of the position.
  • Charity Scam:During the holidays, scammers prey on people’s generosity by setting up fake charities or impersonating real ones to solicit donations. Verify charities before donating to ensure your contributions go to legitimate organizations. Use official websites and trusted platforms to make your donations.
  • Fake Online Stores:Scammers create websites that look like legitimate retailers, offering popular items at deep discounts. Once you make a purchase, you might receive counterfeit goods or nothing at all. Always check the URL for “https” and look for a padlock icon. Research the store and read customer reviews before making a purchase. Finally, compare prices with other reputable sites. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Take advantage of the security features offered by your bank

At Umpqua Bank, we offer a host of online banking security features and settings to help you make educated financial decisions and to alert you to suspicious activities. Simply and take these additional safety steps:

  1. Manage Security Alerts
    Customize alerts to notify you via email or mobile phone when your online account is accessed, passwords are entered, new devices are registered, external accounts are added or security preferences are changed. You can also set alerts for balance levels, transaction amounts, online transfers and more. Go to Settings/Alerts in your online banking dashboard.
  2. Set Debit Card Controls
    These tools allow you to set transaction limits and types for debit card purchases and activity alerts for specific transaction types, including in-person purchases, e-commerce, international and ATM usage. You can also manage your card status by temporarily restricting cards or reporting your card lost or stolen to cancel it entirely. Go to Services/Debit Card Controls and click Card details.
  3. Monitor your activity
    Verify transactions regularly; a full history is available for each account. You can also ensure that only you have accessed your online account by checking your last login time, displayed under your name in the upper right-hand corner of your online banking dashboard.

Stay vigilant and informed

Read messages carefully. Question and verify. Be charitable but wise.

Remember, fraud can happen to anyone.  If you think you’ve been a victim, call Umpqua Bank immediately at 866-486-7782.

For more tips and security suggestions, be sure to check out our other Focus on Fraud topics, including:

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