The holiday season is a time for connection, generosity, and celebration, but unfortunately, it’s also when scammers become most active. As technology advances, so do their tricks. Artificial intelligence (AI) now makes it easier for fraudsters to create convincing fake voices, videos, and messages that can fool even the most cautious among us. Here’s how to stay alert and protect yourself from both classic and new types of scams this holiday season:
1. Watch Out for Fake Charities
Scammers often pose as charitable organizations during the holidays, using emotional appeals to pressure people into donating. Some now use AI-generated websites or even fake videos of real charity workers.
- Verify before donating: Use trusted resources like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.
- Go directly to the source: Don’t donate through links in emails or social media posts—visit the charity’s official website.
- Be skeptical of payment requests: Charities rarely ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
2. Be Cautious with Online Shopping
The convenience of online shopping comes with risks, especially as fake retail sites become more sophisticated.
- Check URLs carefully: Scammers use websites that look almost identical to legitimate ones but have small spelling differences. Example: gooogle.com (fake) vs. google.com (legitamite)
- Read real reviews: Unsure about a websites legitimacy? Sites like Trustpilot or the Better Business Bureau can reveal red flags.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when purchasing: Hackers can intercept your payment information.
- Use secure payments: Credit cards and payment services like PayPal offer more protection than debit cards.
3. Be Aware of AI-Powered Phishing and Deepfake Scams
AI technology can now generate eerily realistic emails, texts, or even voices of people you know. Some scammers use voice cloning to impersonate family members or coworkers in distress.
- Verify unusual requests: If a “family member” or “friend” calls or messages asking for money, hang up and call them back using their known number.
- Inspect email senders carefully: Fake emails might use similar but slightly altered addresses.
- Never share personal info from a link: Go directly to the official website to log in or verify information.
4. Guard Against Phone and Text Scams
Government impersonation scams continue to rise—especially those pretending to be from Social Security, Medicare, or MassHealth.
- Remember: These agencies will never call, text, or email asking for personal information, money, or gift cards.
- Hang up immediately: If you’re unsure, call the agency directly using a verified number.
- Watch for AI-generated robocalls: Some scammers use realistic AI voices claiming to be a representative or loved one.
5. Protect Your Personal Information
Online security is more important than ever.
- Use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager.
- Turn on two-factor authentication for an extra layer of protection.
- Don’t overshare online: Scammers can use details from social media to guess passwords or impersonate you.
6. Monitor Your Financial Accounts
Set aside a few minutes each week to review your bank and credit card statements.
- Report suspicious activity immediately.
- Set up alerts: Many banks offer instant notifications for transactions or login attempts.
- Freeze your credit if you suspect identity theft.
7. Stay Informed
Scammers adapt quickly. The best defense is awareness. Follow updates from trusted sources like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or AARP Fraud Watch Network.
Bottom Line:
The holidays should be about connection, not concern. By staying informed about modern scams (including those powered by AI) you can protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming targets. Stay cautious, verify before you trust, and enjoy the season safely.
