Columbus, OH – As holiday shopping ramps up across Ohio this week, state officials are urging residents to stay alert for financial scams targeting gift buyers, online shoppers, and anyone making seasonal donations.
According to the Ohio Department of Commerce, scammers often intensify activity in December by using fake charities, fraudulent gift card requests, and deceptive social-media messages to trick residents into sending money or sharing personal information. Officials warn that many schemes are designed to mimic legitimate organizations or seasonal promotions, making them harder for shoppers to spot during the busy holiday period.
In a public reminder shared this week, the Department of Commerce advised Ohioans to verify websites before entering payment information, avoid responding to unsolicited messages asking for money, and be cautious with social-media fundraisers that lack verifiable details. Residents should also monitor bank statements closely for unexpected charges.
The agency’s Division of Securities released a holiday budget and fraud-prevention guide to help families protect themselves from increasingly sophisticated schemes. The guide includes steps for confirming charity legitimacy, recognizing high-pressure sales tactics, and understanding red flags linked to investment scams. Officials say these resources are especially important as more Ohioans shift to online shopping and digital giving.
Ohio consumers who believe they may have encountered a scam can report it directly to the Department of Commerce or consult the state’s fraud-prevention tools for additional guidance.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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