Avoid Holiday Scams this Winter

With the holiday season fast approaching, here are some tips so you can avoid getting scammed this winter. Scammers see this time of year as the perfect time to take advantage of shoppers. Here are some tips to help you outsmart those bah-humbug scammers and donate safely.

• Use credit cards when purchasing gifts online. Credit cards offer more protection than debit cards when purchasing items online. Many credit cards offer benefits, like protection for returns and purchases. If unauthorized charges pop up on your statement, you'll be able to dispute those charges just like you would if you had a charge you didn't recognize on your Medicare Summary Notice.
• Buy Gift Cards directly from the retailer. Be careful where you purchase your gift cards. Fraudsters have been known to tamper with the gift cards displayed in grocery stores. Your best bet is to buy gift cards directly from the retailer at their register or on their website.
• Research charities before you donate. During the holidays there is always the generous spirit of donating to a charity. Make sure your donation goes where you want it to, not into the hands of a scammer. If someone calls, asking you to give to a charity, don't let them rush you into making a donation. Instead, research the charity to make sure your donation counts.

As always, never give out your personal information over the phone or on the internet if you do not know the person you are speaking with. Learn more holiday shopping tips from the Federal Trade Commission.

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