How To Keep Your Money Safe From Holiday Scams

November 24, 2025

How To Keep Your Money Safe From Holiday Scams

Holiday scams are on the rise, and each year, criminals steal billions from innocent shoppers and generous donors. As the season gets busier and people feel generous, scammers work overtime, ready to snatch hard-earned money through fake charities, phony sales, and convincing calls. Spotting these tricks and learning safety tips can help maintain holiday cheer and protect your finances.

Fake Charities Ramp Up

Scammers increase their efforts during the holidays and impersonate reputable charities to steal money.
Do: Verify any charity before donating by searching its name online or using trustworthy sources.
Don’t: Donate via phone calls or email links in emails unless confirmed, and always use official channels for giving.

Be Cautious With Online Shopping

Holiday deals online can be tempting, but crooks create fake stores or mimic real retailers to trick buyers.
Do: Shop at stores with a secure website (indicated by “https” and a padlock symbol) and use credit cards for added protection.
Don’t: Click links from emails or pop-up ads promising deals, and steer clear of unfamiliar websites with unusually low prices.

Phishing: Don’t Take the Bait

Phishing emails, calls, and texts are a significant way scammers try to steal personal details, pretending to be banks, the government, or trusted businesses.
Do: Check sender email addresses. Legitimate government or charity emails usually end in “gov” or “org.”
Don’t: Give out information or click on links unless you are absolutely sure the message is legitimate.

Want even more smart tips to stay safe this season?

Continue reading the full article on BetterLife Connect and explore other helpful features, expert insights, and inspiring stories waiting for you there.
Your safest—and happiest—holiday starts with staying informed!

____________________________________________________________________________________

About BetterLife: Based in Madison, Wisconsin, BetterLife has been serving families for over 125 years as a non-profit, member-owned life insurance company. With members across the United States, BetterLife is committed to helping people protect their financial futures and live with greater peace of mind. In 2024, BetterLife provided $2.1 million in community support across its footprint. Learn more at Betterlifeins.com.

BetterLife is authorized to conduct business in 28 states (Arizona, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming) and is currently conducting business as BetterLife Insurance Company in Oregon. In all other states, new policies are not available at this time. Products issued by BetterLife are available to applicants who meet membership, insurability, U.S. citizenship, and residency requirements. Not all products described are available in all states. Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of BetterLife.

____________________________________________________________________________________

November 24, 2025