Stay Alert During Back-to-School and Holiday Shopping Season

As summer comes to an end and we transition into fall, many of us are focused on back-to-school preparations, seasonal activities, and planning for the busy holiday season ahead. Unfortunately, this time of year can also create opportunities for fraudsters, who often target consumers during periods of increased spending and online activity.

Whether you're purchasing school supplies, booking holiday travel, or shopping for gifts, staying informed about common scams can help protect your finances and personal information.

Understanding Seasonal Fraud Risks

Fraudsters continuously evolve their tactics, using technology and social engineering to exploit unsuspecting consumers. During the fall months, scams often increase as people shop online more frequently and respond to promotions, package notifications, and holiday deals.

Common Types of Fraud to Watch For

1. Online Shopping Scams
   As online shopping increases, scammers may create fake websites, counterfeit online stores, or fraudulent advertisements designed to steal payment information or personal data.


2. Phishing and Smishing Attacks
   Fraudulent emails, text messages, and social media messages often appear to come from trusted companies, schools, delivery carriers, or financial institutions. Their goal is to trick recipients into sharing passwords, account information, or other sensitive data.


3. Package Delivery Scams
   During the holiday shipping season, fraudsters frequently send fake tracking updates or delivery notifications that direct recipients to malicious websites or request personal information.


4. Identity Theft
   Criminals can use stolen personal information to open accounts, apply for credit, or make unauthorized purchases, potentially causing significant financial and credit damage.


5. Employment and Scholarship Scams
   Students and families should be cautious of fraudulent job offers, financial aid opportunities, or scholarship programs that request upfront fees or sensitive personal information.

Tips for Staying Safe from Fraud

Stay Informed Knowledge is one of your best defenses. Keep up with emerging scams by reading the TouchPoints Blog and visiting the Wescom Security Center at wescom.org/security-center.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords Protect your online accounts with strong passwords and multifactor authentication whenever available. Consider using a password manager to securely store login credentials.

Verify Before You Click Be cautious when receiving unexpected emails, texts, or phone calls. Verify the sender independently before clicking links, downloading attachments, or sharing personal information.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly Review account statements and transaction activity frequently. Report any unauthorized charges or suspicious activity immediately.

Shop Safely Online Purchase only from reputable retailers and avoid deals that seem unusually good. Before entering payment information, confirm that websites are legitimate and secure.

Protect Personal Information Limit the amount of personal information you share online and ensure your devices are updated with the latest security software.

Report Suspicious Activity If you encounter a scam or believe you've been targeted by fraud, report it promptly. Quick action can help minimize potential damage.

As we head into the fall season and prepare for the holidays, make fraud awareness part of your routine. A little caution today can go a long way toward protecting your financial well-being tomorrow.

For more security tips or to report fraud, visit the Wescom Security Center at wescom.org/security-center.