Boise, ID – The Idaho State Police (ISP) is urging residents to stay vigilant as scammers ramp up efforts during the holiday season. Fraudulent emails, fake websites, and suspicious ads are targeting shoppers seeking holiday deals.
According to ISP, common scams include phishing emails impersonating trusted brands and too-good-to-be-true online deals. Fake holiday e-cards and messages requesting personal information are also prevalent.
To help residents avoid falling victim, ISP provided these safety tips:
• Verify deals and avoid offers that seem suspiciously cheap.
• Double-check email senders to spot impersonators.
• Shop only on secure websites using “https” in the URL.
• Never share personal or payment information over unsecured platforms.
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or texts.
ISP also cautions against oversharing on social media, as scammers can exploit personal details. Shopping with reputable businesses and being cautious online are key defenses.
The holiday season is a prime time for fraud. By staying alert and following these steps, Idahoans can keep their celebrations scam-free.
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