AARP Report: Holiday Shopping Fraud Continues to Target Consumers During a Season of Joy

A new 2024 AARP Fraud Watch Network report highlights the ways criminals are targeting consumers this holiday season. The report shows four-in-five (82%) U.S. consumers have experienced some type of fraud this year –including gift card scams, counterfeit products, phishing attempts disguised as delivery notifications, and more. The research also shows many consumers are not aware of the types of fraud they may come across when shopping online.

“Criminals are using a combination of tried-and-true methods and new technology to steal billions of dollars every year – and they’re counting on consumers’ unfamiliarity with scams to succeed” said Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq. It’s important to remain mindful that scams are everywhere and to share what you know with your family and friends.”

This year, more than half (56%) of consumers reported receiving a notification from someone saying they were from USPS, FedEx, or UPS about a shipment problem that ultimately turned out to be fraudulent, which nearly doubled compared to 2022 (29%). Likewise, nearly two-thirds of consumers (64%) are unaware that online retailers will not ask for personal login information to provide them with customer support.

Ads on social media continue to be a source for targeting consumers with over a third (35%) saying they experienced fraud when purchasing a product through an online ad. This highlights the importance of safe internet browsing and using caution when clicking ads that may appear legitimate.

In addition to the survey on consumers’ personal experiences with scams, AARP asked survey respondents to answer a 10-question fraud knowledge quiz. Disturbingly, knowledge on some questions has declined over the last two years. Here’s some important advice for consumers:

· Retailers will never request your login information to provide customer support.

· Be wary of free trial offers as they often lead to expensive subscriptions that are difficult to cancel.

· Peer-to-peer payment apps do not carry the same consumer protections as a credit card. Only use these apps with people and businesses you know and trust.

· It’s risky to do a web search for a company’s customer support number because criminals buy ads impersonating those companies. Check billing and credit card statements for customer service, use the number on the back of your credit cards, or go directly to the company online by typing in their web address, like www.aarp.org.

To read the full report and learn more visit: www.aarp.org/holidayscams2024

AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource that equips consumers with up-to-date knowledge to spot and avoid scams, and connects those targeted by scams with our fraud helpline specialists who provide support and guidance on what to do next. Anyone can call the helpline at 877-908-3360. AARP Fraud Watch Network also offers free, facilitated peer discussion groups that seek to provide emotional support for those experiencing fraud; and advocates at the federal, state, and local levels to enact policy changes that protect consumers and enforce laws.