‘Tis the Season for Scammers in Louisiana

Louisiana knows how to celebrate the holidays, from tree lightings in Shreveport to festivals along the Red River. Unfortunately, it is also the time of year when scammers look for easy opportunities.

Law enforcement across our state reports an annual spike in fraud attempts during November and December, especially those targeting online shoppers, elderly residents and anyone feeling the holiday rush. Here are a few of the more common schemes making the rounds and the signs that something may not be what it seems.

Here Are Several Scams Happening Across Louisiana Right Now

The Compromised Card Trick

One of the boldest scams involves someone calling and claiming to represent your bank. The caller warns that your card has been compromised and insists they need your physical card so they can “run tests.” A courier is then sent to your home. Once the scammer has the card, your account becomes an open door.

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Banks, including the major ones serving Louisiana, have repeated this same message for years. They will not send anyone to your house. Any call asking for a card, a PIN or personal information should be treated as suspicious. Hang up and call the number on the back of your card.

Holiday Charity Scams

Louisiana has a generous heart, and scammers know it. They show up at doorsteps, in parking lots and across social media pretending to represent real charities. They pressure you to give immediately and sometimes change the donation amount on a screen before you know it. The safest approach is to check the organization’s name on a charity evaluation website before giving.

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Fake Online Deals

The holiday shopping season draws in fraudulent online merchants every year. These websites look legitimate and the deals seem unbeatable. Items are often never delivered, and buyers unknowingly hand over credit card information to a fake checkout page. Reading reviews, checking domain age and watching for spelling errors can help you avoid most of these traps.

Staying a Step Ahead

Scammers rely on urgency. Slowing down is one of the best defenses. Do not pay with gift cards, do not respond to pressure tactics and always verify unexpected calls, texts or emails. A few extra seconds of caution can protect your wallet and your holiday cheer.