Santander warns shoppers: Watch out for Christmas scams!
Nearly £2 Million Lost to Festive Frauds Last Year
Santander has issued a stark warning as scammers rake in nearly £2 million in losses between Christmas and New Year’s Day 2023. In one shocking case, a single customer fell prey to an investment scam, losing over £600,000.
Scammers Snare Festive Shoppers with Fake Deals
Fraudsters ramp up their game during the holiday season, targeting shoppers with bogus bargain sales on clothing, gadgets, and concert tickets. Impersonation scams are also booming, with criminals pretending to be bank staff to steal sensitive info and cash.
From December 25 to January 1, Santander logged 596 scam cases involving retail and business clients alike.
5 Top Tips to Dodge Christmas Scams
- Think Twice Before Paying: Heed your bank’s warnings—they’re there to protect you.
- Avoid Social Media Bargains: Steer clear of deals on social platforms that look too good to be true.
- Verify All Contacts: Fraudsters can fake phone numbers and emails. Always call back on a trusted number.
- Research First: Check company reviews and authenticity before handing over cash.
- Confirm with Friends: If buying from friends on socials, phone them directly to avoid hacked accounts selling fake goods.
Spot a Scam? Here’s What to Do
If you suspect a scam, call 159—a simple helpline number supported by many banks for fraud advice and support.
Santander urges everyone to stay alert this festive season to protect your hard-earned cash from Christmas crooks.
