Stay Safe This Christmas: How to Spot and Avoid Fraud

As Christmas approaches, we're reminding our members to stay alert to scams and fraud, particularly when shopping online, receiving unexpected messages or managing their money.

The festive season is a busy time for everyone. Between buying presents, arranging deliveries and preparing for Christmas, it's easy to overlook something that doesn't seem quite right.

Unfortunately, fraudsters know this too. They often take advantage of the increased spending and activity around Christmas, using convincing messages, phone calls and emails to trick people into sharing personal information or sending money.

At Cardiff & Vale Credit Union, we want to help you keep your money and personal information safe this Christmas.

Common Christmas Scams to Look Out For

Fraud can take many forms, and scams are becoming increasingly difficult to recognise. Here are some common examples to be aware of:

1. Fake delivery messages

With more parcels arriving in the run-up to Christmas, you might receive a text or email claiming that a delivery has been missed or that you need to pay a small fee to rearrange it.

These messages can look like they're from well-known delivery companies, but the links may lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal or payment details.

2. Online shopping scams

Christmas offers and Black Friday discounts can be tempting, but not every deal is genuine.

Fraudsters sometimes create fake websites, social media advertisements or online listings offering popular products at unusually low prices. You could end up paying for something that never arrives.

3. Fraudulent calls and messages

Scammers may contact you pretending to be from your bank, credit union or another trusted organisation.

They might claim there's suspicious activity on your account, that you need to confirm your details or that urgent action is required to protect your money.

These messages can appear convincing, especially when they use familiar names, logos or telephone numbers.

4. Fake loan offers

Christmas can be an expensive time of year, and fraudsters may target people looking to borrow money.

Be particularly cautious of unexpected loan offers, guaranteed approvals or requests for upfront payments before receiving a loan.

Always check that you're dealing with a genuine, authorised lender before sharing any personal or financial information.

Five Simple Ways to Protect Yourself

Taking a few precautions can help you avoid falling victim to fraud.

Stop and think before responding. Fraudsters often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making a quick decision. A genuine organisation should give you the opportunity to check that a request is legitimate.

Don't click suspicious links. If you receive an unexpected email or text, visit the organisation's official website yourself rather than following a link in the message.

Keep your personal information safe. Never share your PIN, passwords or one-time security codes with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.

Check before you buy. When shopping online, use reputable retailers, read independent reviews and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.

Contact organisations directly. If someone claims to be contacting you from your bank or credit union, end the conversation and call the organisation using a trusted telephone number.

Worried About Fraud? Contact Us Directly

If you receive a suspicious call, email or text message claiming to be from Cardiff & Vale Credit Union, or you're unsure whether a communication is genuine, please call us on 029 2111 1720.

Our team can help you check whether the communication has come from us and advise you on what to do next.

You should never feel pressured to act immediately, share sensitive information or transfer money because of an unexpected message or telephone call.

Remember: If something doesn't feel right, it's always better to check with us first.

We're Here to Help You Stay Safe

Christmas should be a time to enjoy with family and friends, without the added worry of financial fraud.

At Cardiff & Vale Credit Union, looking after our members and helping them make informed financial decisions is important to us throughout the year.

By staying alert, taking your time and checking anything suspicious, you can help protect yourself and your money this festive season.

If you're ever unsure about a communication claiming to be from us, call our team on 029 2111 1720. We're here to help.