CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office is cautioning the public to stay vigilant against cybercriminals this holiday season, particularly as online activity surges and older adults face increased targeting.
“Cybercriminals exploit the holiday spirit and heightened online shopping,” said U.S. Attorney Dena J. King. “By staying alert, consumers can protect their personal and financial information.”
The FBI’s 2023 Internet Crimes Report ranked North Carolina among the top 15 states for online financial fraud, with $12.5 billion in nationwide losses reported last year. Common holiday scams include:
- Fake Online Stores: Scammers create fraudulent websites offering deep discounts on sought-after items like electronics and jewelry. Verify legitimacy before making purchases, especially from social media ads.
- Delivery Scams: Beware of fake emails or texts about missed packages. Avoid clicking suspicious links; instead, confirm directly with delivery companies.
- Gift Card Scams: Only purchase gift cards from reputable retailers to avoid receiving worthless cards.
- Fake Charities: Research charities thoroughly before donating to avoid fraudulent campaigns. Check for misspellings, poor grammar, and missing contact details.
- Phishing Attacks: Look out for emails or texts prompting you to click links to resolve account issues, claim prizes, or confirm reservations. Always verify directly with the source.
- Job Scams: Avoid job ads requiring upfront payments or requesting personal information without verifying legitimacy. Be wary of money mule schemes involving fraudulent checks.
Consumers are urged to stay cautious, verify suspicious communications, and protect sensitive information during the holiday season.
