When your to-do list grows, scammers move fast. Here’s how to slow them down.
The winter months bring family gatherings, gift shopping, and more than a little busyness — which is exactly why scammers increase their activity this time of year. Their goal is simple: rush you into reacting before you have time to think.
This holiday season, one of the biggest fraud trends isn’t a specific scam at all. It’s a tactic: manufactured urgency. Criminals know you’re more likely to click quickly, pay quickly, or respond quickly right now. These high-pressure ploys show up in inboxes, text messages, and social media feeds every day.
Below are the most common urgent-based scams to watch for — and how to stay calm, slow down, and stay protected.
1. “Your Package Is Delayed” Delivery Scams
Scammers send texts or emails claiming a delivery can’t be completed unless you:
- pay a small “redelivery fee,”
- update your address, or
- click a link to release your shipment.
They use real carrier names (USPS, UPS, FedEx) to look legitimate.
Red flag: You should never be asked to pay an unexpected fee to receive a package.
Protect yourself: Always visit the carrier’s website directly instead of clicking the link.
2. Flash Sales and Vanishing Deals
From “Only two left!” to “Price expires in 10 minutes,” fake online shops push countdown clocks to get you to buy before you research.
Protect yourself: If the deal feels rushed or too good to be true, it likely is. Stick to trusted retailers or verified seller accounts.
3. Holiday Job Scams
Seasonal work is in high demand — and scammers know it. Fake postings for gift-wrapping jobs, “shipping assistant” roles, or work-from-home gigs often require you to:
- deposit a check,
- send money back, or
- purchase equipment up front.
Protect yourself: Legitimate employers don’t ask you to move money for them.
4. Charity Pressure Tactics
Criminals impersonate real nonprofits and create fake fundraisers with emotional, time-sensitive appeals:
- “Donate now or the match expires!”
- “We’re short on our holiday goal!”
Protect yourself: Research before giving and donate through an organization’s official website.
5. Gift Card Urgency Scams
Fraudsters pretend to be a coworker, friend, or family member asking for help buying “urgent gift cards” due to a holiday emergency.
Protect yourself: No legitimate business or agency will demand gift cards as payment.
How to Stay Grounded When Everything Feels Rushed
When a message feels urgent, pause and:
- Read it again slowly.
- Check the sender.
- Go directly to the source instead of clicking a link.
- When in doubt, call us.
F&M Bank is always here to help you stay secure this season and all year long. If you ever suspect any fraudulent activity or encounter a potential scam, please contact us immediately or visit your nearest F&M Bank office.