As the holidays approach, many of us are focused on gift-giving, travel plans, and connecting with loved ones. Unfortunately, scammers are also busy this time of year—targeting consumers with increasingly sophisticated schemes. At Cornerstone Bank, we care about your financial well-being and are here to help you stay informed and protected.
Recognize the Red Flags of Holiday Scams
Being aware is your first line of defense. Some of the most common holiday scams include:
- Phishing Emails and Texts: Messages that appear to come from legitimate retailers, delivery services, or even charitable organizations may include links that steal your information or infect your device with malware. Always verify senders and avoid clicking suspicious links.
- Fake Online Stores and Deals Too Good to Be True: Be cautious when shopping online. Stick with known retailers or verify lesser-known sites before making purchases. Look for secure URLs (https://) and read reviews before entering payment information.
- Gift Card Scams: Scammers may impersonate family members or employers asking you to purchase gift cards and share the codes. No legitimate business or loved one will ever ask you to do this over email or text.
- Social Media Scams: Be wary of ads or giveaway posts that ask for personal information. If a deal or prize sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Avoiding Holiday Scams Means Protecting Your Information and Finances
Here are a few proactive steps you can take toward avoiding holiday scams:
- Monitor your accounts regularly through online or mobile banking.
- Set up account alerts to catch suspicious activity early.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for financial transactions.
- If something feels off—pause and verify. Reach out directly to the company or person requesting information.
Cornerstone Bank Is Here to Help
We understand that holiday scams can be unsettling. That’s why we make it easy for you to stay in control. With secure digital banking tools, knowledgeable staff, and a commitment to your safety, Cornerstone Bank is your partner in protecting what matters most.
If you believe you’ve been targeted or have questions about your account security, please contact your local branch or reach out online for more information. Stay safe and enjoy a secure, joyful holiday season—knowing we’re always here to support you.
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