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The holidays are here — and so is the season of scams. Fraudsters are using AI deepfakes, gift card tricks, fake delivery alerts, refund scams, and sneaky QR code traps. Stay aware, protect your loved ones (especially seniors), and keep the holidays merry — not messy.
“As we approach the holiday season — a time when scammers often become more aggressive — we urge our customers to stay vigilant," Belmore continued. "Be cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, and offers that seem too good to be true. Protecting yourself starts with awareness.”
AI deepfake celebrity investment scam
Scammers are using AI-generated videos and voices to mimic celebrities to promote fake investment opportunities or romance scams. Victims often respond to social media posts (or WhatsApp chats) and are convinced that they are engaging in a long-distance relationship with the celebrity. Victims are typically asked to invest, directed by the “celebrity,” many times losing thousands of dollars. A McAfee study found 39 percent of people clicked on deepfake endorsements, and 10 percent lost an average of $525.
Elderly gift card fraud ring
In March 2025, a fraud ring in Long Island posing online as government officials sent text alerts to targets, telling them that their personal information was compromised. Those who fell for the scam were instructed to buy Home Depot or Lowe’s gift cards and then provide the redemption codes. The scammers then drained the cards — netting more than $3 million in stolen merchandise and cash. It was discovered that this was part of a $20 million gift card fraud ring that operated in 45 states and defrauded over 1,800 victims, many elderly.
Brushing and quishing delivery package scams
A rising scam in 2025 — brushing — involves victims receiving unsolicited packages. This scam is used to create fake “verified” purchases, so the scammer can post positive reviews in the victim’s name and boost their product rankings on retail platforms. The Better Business Bureau reported a 46 percent increase in brushing scams this year. Then there’s quishing, where the unsolicited packages have QR codes that, when scanned, steer users to phishing sites or trigger malware installs, exposing the victims' personal and payment information. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service warns against scanning QR codes on any unexpected packages.
Phishing and smishing delivery alerts
Con artists often pose as large online retailers, UPS, FedEx, or USPS via texts or emails, claiming a package you never ordered is undeliverable and urging you to “reschedule” by clicking a link. These links are usually malicious. For instance, after the delivery of an Amazon order, you could receive a text claiming the item didn’t meet Amazon standards and promising a refund if you click a link. It’s a scam and the link is malicious.
Indeed, the Federal Trade Commission warns: Never click links in unsolicited delivery messages — verify through official apps or carrier websites.
Holiday safety steps
No matter if it is one of the above scams or an entirely new one, there are steps you can take to help avoid getting conned. A lot of it has to do with having the right mental attitude.
1. Pause and verify
• Slow down; scammers push urgency.
• Go directly to apps or official websites to verify deliveries or account issues. If in doubt, call the company directly.
• Search known company websites for scam warnings.
• Keep your passwords secure and change immediately if you are concerned or compromised.
2. Avoid gift card or wire requests
• No legitimate business or government agency will ask for payment via gift cards or wires. In fact, many large retailers are now asking you for the reason for a gift card purchase before you can purchase the card.
• If someone asks for gift card numbers, hang up.
3. Be QR-cautious
• Never scan QR codes from unexpected packages or emails.
• Use only trusted apps or official carrier sites for tracking.
4. Question AI-based pleas
• Online celebrity endorsements don’t guarantee authenticity and are usually scams. Check the celebrity’s website and search for any scam warnings.
• When in doubt, don’t click. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
5. Verify through safe channels
• For any urgent money request, call the person or company on an official number — not one provided in a suspicious message.
• Establish a safe word with family members for emergency scenarios. (Related: Trusted contacts and protecting seniors)
6. Use secure payment methods
• Use credit cards, which offer fraud protection, instead of debit cards or wires.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all financial and shopping apps.
What to do if you suspect fraud
If you do encounter a suspicious situation or solicitation, there are steps you can take.
• Report to the FBI’s IC3 (ic3.gov), FTC, or local police.
• Alert your bank or card issuer immediately if you shared details or lost money.
• Consult family right away; don’t suffer in silence. Timely reporting can help catch scammers and protect others. (Related: Stopping senior scams with the gift of awareness)
Conclusion
As the festive season brings joy and connection, it also unfortunately presents a fertile ground for increasingly sophisticated scams. Fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics. However, by embracing a mindset of caution and employing the practical safety steps outlined — such as pausing to verify, being wary of unusual payment requests, and questioning unsolicited communications — you can significantly reduce your risk.
Remember that vigilance is your best defense. Stay informed, protect your personal information, and empower yourself and your loved ones to enjoy a truly merry and secure holiday season, free from the stress of scams.
Discover more from MassMutual …
How to protect loved ones against online romance scams
What is adoption fraud and how to spot it?
How to recognize and report financial abuse of the elderly
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