The 12 scams of Christmas: How scammers are targeting you this year

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Scammers, schemers and fraudsters failed to make the “nice list” this year, according to the Better Business Bureau.

The agency put together a list of the 12 most common scam tactics these bad actors use around the holiday season. Better Call 4 shared the first half of the countdown with you earlier this week: Puppy scams, holiday wish list items, Advent calendars that didn’t deliver, fake shipping notifications, phony charities, and imposter scams made up 12 through seven.

Now, the countdown continues.

6. Temporary holiday jobs

Employment scams were identified as the number one riskiest scam for people aged 18-44 in 2023.

So, if you’re looking for seasonal work this holiday season, keep an eye out for opportunities that seem too good to be true.

5. Gift card scams

Nothing brings good cheer like the word “free.” Scammers have been known to take advantage of this weakness by impersonating legitimate companies, sending emails requesting personal information to receive free gift cards.

Do not open that message! Delete it. At the very least, do not click on any links.

4. Fake toll collection texts

New this year, scammers impersonate a state road toll collection service and text you, claiming you owe a road toll fee and provide a link to make your payment.

As always, don’t click it!

3. Holiday apps

Some apps allow kids to video chat with Santa or track his sleigh on Christmas Eve. But make sure you review privacy policies to see what information will be collected. And be careful, as free apps could contain malware.

2. Social media gift exchanges

They may involve giving bottles of wine or purchasing $10 gifts. 

In any version, participants are sharing their personal information or buying and shipping gifts or money to unknown recipients. But, to put it simply, the BBB said it’s an illegal pyramid scheme.

1. Misleading social media ads 

As you scroll through Facebook or Instagram, you may see certain products advertised.

"We always say, ‘If something seems too good to be true, it probably is,’” said President of the BBB of Central Ohio, Judy Dollison. “So, if you see a really good price on something, if it just doesn't seem right, I would avoid it.”

With any scam, report it to the BBB, local authorities or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, so others can become aware of it before it’s too late.