Holiday Fraud Alert: What You Need to Know

The holidays are a time for joy and giving, but unfortunately, scammers are also looking to cash in. With all the excitement of shopping and celebrating, it's easy to let your guard down. But don't worry, here are a few simple things you can do to stay safe:

• Watch out for tricky QR codes: These little squares can hide nasty surprises. Never scan a QR code from someone you don't trust. Always double-check where the code takes you before you do anything.
• Be careful with online shopping: Deals that seem too good to be true usually are. Look closely at the website you're shopping on. Make sure it looks legit and that the address starts with "https" – that little "s" means it's secure.
• Don't click on suspicious links: If you get an email or text with a link you weren't expecting, don't click on it! It could be a trick to steal your information.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind:

• Use strong passwords for all your online accounts.
• Be careful about what information you share online.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for online shopping.

By being a little extra careful, you can enjoy the holidays without worrying about falling victim to a scam.

Happy Holidays!