Holiday shopping brings great deals and even more opportunities for scammers. At Queensborough National Bank & Trust, we encourage you to pause before you click, pay or share information.

Watch for Common Holiday Shopping Scams

1. Items that never arrive: Be cautious of unfamiliar websites offering hard-to-find gifts or unusually low prices.
2. Gift card demands: Never share a gift card number or PIN as payment.
3. Fake delivery messages: Avoid links claiming a package is delayed or a small fee is due.
4. Misleading social media ads: Research the seller before purchasing from an advertisement in your feed.

Shop More Safely

1. Research unfamiliar sellers and check reviews, contact details and return policies.
2. Go directly to a retailer’s official website or app instead of following unexpected links.
3. Pay by credit card when possible, and avoid sellers demanding gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
4. Save receipts, order confirmations and tracking information.

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam

If you suspect a scam, act quickly. If you used your Queensborough debit card, let us know right away by calling the number on your card. For other bank accounts or cards, contact your bank or card issuer using a trusted phone number, such as the number on your card. You can also report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or IC3.gov.

A few extra moments before checkout can help protect your money and make holiday shopping safer.

Want more ways to spot scams and protect your accounts? Visit Queensborough’s fraud prevention page for more information. Queensborough National Bank & Trust Co | Banking Security