December 2025 Scam: Holiday Hustles to Avoid
Every holiday season, scams targeting older adults increase, especially online. Scammers know this is a time when many of us are shopping for loved ones, donating to causes we care about and connecting with family. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) highlights the most current common tactics.
Below is what you need to know to stay safe and protect your financial and personal information.
1. Misleading Social Media Ads
Scammers promote products that never arrive or are far lower quality than advertised. Always research sellers, look for verified contact information and use secure payment methods.
2. Online Gift Exchanges
“Secret Sister” or “gift exchange” posts often circulating on social media are actually illegal pyramid schemes. Never share personal information or send money or gifts to unknown individuals.
3. Holiday Apps
Some free, holiday-themed apps collect more data than they need or contain hidden malware. Review privacy settings carefully.
4. Fake Toll Notifications
Texts demanding payment for missed toll fees are increasingly common. Do not click links in unsolicited messages. Contact the agency directly using a verified website or phone number.
5. “Free” Gift Card Offers
Emails or social media messages promising gift cards in exchange for personal information are usually fraudulent. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
6. Seasonal Job Scams
Legitimate employers will never ask applicants to pay upfront fees or provide sensitive information before a formal hiring process. Verify the company and job postings before responding.
7. Fake Websites
Fake websites mimic real retailers to steal credit card information. Check URLs carefully, and when in doubt, navigate directly to the company’s verified website. Do not use links in the ads.
8. Charity Impersonation Scams
Scammers often pose as legitimate nonprofits during the holiday season. Before giving, confirm the organization’s legitimacy through trusted charity-verification sites like Candid and Charity Navigator and donate directly on its official website.
9. Package Delivery Scams
Texts or emails claiming you have a package problem may contain malicious links. Visit the carrier’s website or app directly to check your delivery status.
10. Advent Calendars
Be cautious with holiday-themed advent calendars. Some may be incomplete or fake. Buy only from trusted stores and verified websites.
11. Popular Wish List Items
Scammers often target high-demand toys and gifts. Low-priced luxury items are often counterfeit. Use caution when buying from unfamiliar sellers or from social media.
12. Pet Purchase Scams
Puppy and kitten scams remain widespread. Never send money for a pet you haven’t seen in person and be cautious with sellers who avoid video calls or pressure you to pay quickly.
How to Stay Safe:
Slow down. Scammers rely on urgency.
Verify before you click, call or give.
Use a credit card when making online purchases, which offers added protection.
Avoid payments through gift cards and wire transfers.
Talk about suspicious messages or offers with a trusted friend or family member
Source: https://www.bbb.org
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