Criminals are primed to take advantage of holiday shoppers. Watch for these 5 scams.

The holiday shopping season is upon us, and with it comes an increase in opportunities for scammers to target consumers and steal their payment data. According to Visa’s 2025 Holiday Threats Report, scammers are taking advantage of the festive season to capitalize on consumers’ excitement and gather personal information illicitly.

One of the tactics being used by scammers is the creation of fake retail websites that closely mimic legitimate companies. These websites are designed to trick shoppers into providing their credit card information, with some sites not even bothering to send any goods after payment. It can be challenging to differentiate between real and fake websites, so consumers are advised to do extra research and validate the authenticity of a site before making a purchase.

Another common scam to watch out for during the holidays is package delivery scams. Scammers send text messages claiming there is a delivery problem with an order that the consumer likely didn’t place. They pose as package delivery services and ask for credit card information to resolve the issue. This scam becomes more prevalent during the holiday season when online shopping and package deliveries are at their peak.

Job seekers looking for seasonal work should also be cautious of fake job offers that require upfront payments. Scammers take advantage of the financial pressure that comes with the holidays and may ask for fees for applying or background checks. It’s essential to apply through official channels and verify the legitimacy of any company offering a job.

Travel-related fraud is another scam to be aware of, with scammers creating fake travel sites and sending phishing emails targeting holiday travelers. Consumers are advised to make reservations through trusted travel sites and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.

Lastly, charity scams are also prevalent during the holiday season, with scammers setting up fake charities to exploit people’s generosity. It’s essential to confirm the legitimacy of a charity before donating, whether online or in person.

As the holiday season approaches, consumers must stay vigilant and be cautious of potential scams targeting their payment data. By following these tips and staying informed, consumers can help protect themselves from falling victim to holiday scams.