The holiday season is here and the streets are busy with shoppers and donation centers.  However, whether you are donating money to charity or simply out buying presents for family and friends, the potential to become a victim of fraud exists.  You can protect yourself by keeping in mind three simple tips before your open your wallet:

 

1. Give Wisely

 

Nothing says “Happy Holidays” like a donation to a charity of your choice.  Your financial support for these charities is honorable and many of the charities do great things for the people in Nevada’s communities.  Unfortunately, not everyone asking for your donation is legitimate.  Decide in advance how much you wish to donate to charities and then make a list of the charities that you may want to support.  Avoid sound-alike names.  Many scams use names that are easily confused with well-respected charities. Avoid giving cash.  For security and tax record purposes, it’s best to pay by credit card – and never give out your bank account information or social security number over the telephone to someone you do not know. 

 

2.  Shop Smart

 

Exchanging gifts and presents is the hallmark of this holiday season, and whether you shop online or in the stores, it is important to pay attention to where and how you use your money and credit cards, especially when shopping online.  Learn the company’s refund and exchange policies before you click the “buy” button.  Each business sets its own refund and exchange policies and they can vary considerably.  Prior to your purchase, find out about the policies.  Save the sales receipt in case merchandise must be returned.  Pay with a credit card and order only from a secure server when shopping online.  Beware if an online seller asks for your banking account number or offers to debit money from your account.  It is best to use a credit card when ordering because credit card purchases offer you protections that you will not have otherwise.  It is also extremely important to verify that you are ordering from a secure server prior to putting in your personal and credit card information.  And finally, trust your instincts. If you don't feel comfortable buying or bidding on an item over the web, or if you feel pressured to place your order immediately, maybe you shouldn't.  

 

3.  Borrow Cautiously

 

Christmas presents get expensive, especially for families that struggle month to month to make ends meet. Unfortunately, many people turn to payday loans or extra credit cards to pay the bills.  If not used correctly, both of these options can quickly send you into a downward financial spiral.  Evaluate your options before you sign up and read all of the fine print.

 

More information and tips on how to protect yourself from fraud this holiday season is available on my website: http://ag.state.nv.us

 

Best wishes for a great holiday season for you and your family.