8 Holiday Shopping Safety Tips to Help You Avoid Scams

Holiday shopping is back and everyone’s looking for the deals. According to 2025 Deloitte’s Holiday Retail Survey, shoppers are expected to spend $1,595 dollars, which is down 10% compared to last year. What’s more, is that seven in 10 shoppers across all income groups are planning to find creative ways to spend money this year and making trade-offs for larger purchases.

While you can find great prices, free delivery options and even easy price comparisons when online shopping (or using AI to help make your list and check it twice), it can put you at higher risk for fraud. Here are a few recommendations that'll keep you safe and secure while continuing to focus on your long-term financial goals:

Recognize and avoid phishing scams

A phishing scam is designed to trick victims into sharing confidential information with a seemingly trusted source. Typically, phishing scams will prompt victims to click a fraudulent link or hand personal information to someone impersonating a legitimate organization. Visit our Security Tips page for more information on ways to protect your information from scammers.

Watch out for common holiday scams

Many cybercriminals create phishing emails or texts that prompt you to click on a link or call for updates, tracking or adding delivery instructions for a package you ordered online. Clicking on these links may infect your phone or computer with malware that enables scammers to capture passwords and take control of your device. Another common phishing tactic is a scammer appearing to be a "friend" or "family member" who needs help ordering a gift card and asks you to buy it for them. If you find yourself in a similar position, contact the person or sender with their correct contact information.

Know your merchants

Verify the reputation of the company or seller. A reputable seller will include information such as a mailing address, phone number and detailed item description in an easy-to-find location. Fraudulent sites may offer lower prices to draw in consumers. Scammers have also used this tactic by creating fake social media ads that feature out-of-stock items and list them as "available for a limited time" or "at a low price." If something appears too good to be true, it probably is.

Look for ‘https’

The “s” in “https” in a website’s URL stands for secure and indicates communication with the webpage is encrypted. Check that the website has security features that'll encrypt your information as it’s being transferred to the seller’s database. You may see a small padlock appear on your browser indicating the transaction is secure.

Update your devices

Keep the operating system and application software secure by updating or patching all your computers and mobile devices. Check to see that your anti-virus/anti-spyware software is running and receiving automatic updates.

Use strong passwords

You should pick a longer phrase for your password. It should contain a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols like ? or ! - for example: 'Myc@t$u3joinedourfamilyin2021'. Make sure each password is different for every site.

Avoid public Wi-Fi

Always use a secure network to shop and that includes in your home. If you don’t have a password-protected network for your home, get one. 

Shop with a credit card

Using a credit card adds an extra layer of protection when you're holiday shopping. Credit cards are an extension of credit, so they aren't directly linked to your bank account like a debit card. This will keep cybercriminals away from your hard-earned cash.

Bonus tip: If you’re shopping in store this holiday season, use mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay to make your shopping more secure and convenient.

Don’t share personal information with AI

While AI can be helpful for creating shopping lists or product recommendations, it’s vital to avoid sharing personal information. These tools are not designed for secure financial transactions or handling any sensitive information like credit card numbers, bank details or other confidential information. Adding your personal information could expose you to data breaches or exploitation by fraudsters. Always use secure payments with trusted merchants when shopping online.

Stay focused on your long-term financial goals

Don’t forget about your financial goals that go beyond December. If you're worried about stretching your wallet too thin, here are a few ideas to keep your holiday spending in check: 

Make a budget

It’s important to keep long-term financial goals on track during periods of increased spending like the holidays. While you might have a budget for your overall finances, consider creating a budget for your specific holiday shopping needs, too. Determine what you want to spend in advance of shopping for each friend and family member to avoid impulse purchases.

Get creative

Creative gift giving can be a smart way to save money during the holidays. Consider less expensive but meaningful gifts like a family heirloom or homemade gift. If you’re not the crafty type, think of a service or experience gift that your loved one will appreciate. Does your family member or friend have an interest in a community cause or charity? Many charities have specific holiday initiatives to help those in need.

Track your spending

There are many tools available to help you stay on track with your holiday budget. If you use MyJFG online and mobile banking, you can also set up alerts on your mobile device to efficiently track money coming in and out of your accounts and monitor for potential fraudulent activity.

Prioritize saving

Consider setting up a separate savings account to jumpstart your funds for next year. Utilizing a separate savings account can help you avoid temptations to spend this money prematurely. You could also download our printable Smart Savings Advent Calendar to uncover daily ways to save and strengthen your finances throughout the holiday season and beyond.

Shop early

It may be tempting to leave holiday shopping to the last minute. Not only can this result in increased stress, but procrastination can lead to paying higher prices, including extra shipping costs to ensure gifts arrive on time. When you shop early, you can take more time to make thoughtful decisions to fit within your budget.

By following these essential tips, you can navigate the holiday shopping season with confidence, peace of mind and ensure your financial goals remain firmly in sight. Don’t forget to check in with your advisor in the new year to make sure you’re on track for your financial goals. Don’t have an advisor? Make it your financial new year’s resolution and get matched today.