Scammers have become more active as the holiday approaches. It's worth figuring out which schemes you need to watch out for so you don't become a victim of fraud when buying gifts or on social media.
The main issue is fake links to "official" stores and messages asking you to transfer money upfront for gifts that never show up 😅 Check the website address letter by letter, buy through trusted marketplaces, and don't send money to strangers on social media - even if they swear they're a "direct supplier" and the price is three times cheaper.
Don't fall for urgency and pressure. Scammers love creating a false sense of urgency - like "only three gifts left in stock," "this price is only today," or "delivery time is cut short, order now." It's a classic trick to keep you from thinking things through. If something seems off, just step away from the screen for a couple of hours and see if you can find information about this store from a different device, or ask acquaintances who've shopped there for their phone number.
Social media is a whole separate thing. Direct messages from people offering to organize a group gift from the class are often fake. Check if it's actually someone you know: go to their profile directly through search, not through the chat. Scammers frequently copy accounts and message as if they're parents from the group. If you're unsure, call that kid's mom and ask her directly.
And one more thing - payments through unofficial channels (transfers by phone number, "sending money to a friend" through payment apps). If you really need to collect money from the whole class, use verified fundraising services or buy from certified stores with your card. If something goes wrong, at least there's someone who can sort out any disputes.
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