Stay Safe This Holiday Season: Your Guide to Smart Shopping, Secure Travel & Digital Protection

The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and a big wave of online shopping, traveling, and digital activity.

Unfortunately, it also brings a rise in scams and fraud attempts. Whether you’re buying gifts, connecting online, or heading out to visit loved ones, staying vigilant can help protect you and your personal information.

Here’s your guide to staying safe this holiday season.

1. Shop Smart & Avoid Seasonal Scams

• Use trusted websites: Stick to reputable online retailers and make sure sites are secure. Avoid clicking links from unknown emails, texts, or pop-ups.
    
• Protect your payment information: Skip the “save card details” option on websites. Manually entering your information each time helps lower the risk of exposure if the site is compromised.
    
• Be cautious with unsolicited messages: Scammers send fake deals, delivery notices, and holiday offers to get you to click. If you didn’t expect it, delete it. Never open suspicious attachments or links.
    
• Don’t let urgency pressure you: Fraudsters often use “limited time offers” or “act now” messages to push quick decisions. Slow down, double check the source, and think before sharing personal or financial details.
   
• Verify financial communications: If you receive a message claiming to be from your bank, be skeptical. BOS will never ask for your account details, passwords, verification codes, or ask you to download an unfamiliar app. When in doubt, contact your bank directly through a trusted number.

3. Stay Vigilant While Traveling

• Monitor your accounts regularly: Check your eStatements and online banking frequently. Report anything suspicious to your bank immediately.
   
• Let your bank know when you travel: Notifying your bank helps ensure your legitimate purchases process while still helping them identify potential fraud quickly.

How to set travel plans in the BOS Mobile App.

• Stay alert in public spaces: Be aware of your surroundings at ATMs, gas stations, and busy shopping locations. Keep your cards and PIN secure.
   
• Share what you learn: Help friends and family stay safe by passing on fraud prevention tips. Awareness is one of the most effective tools for preventing fraud.

Holiday Wrap-Up

A little caution goes a long way. By practicing safe online habits, monitoring your accounts, and staying alert while traveling, you can enjoy a joyful, stress-free holiday season. Stay safe, stay smart, and may your holidays be bright, secure, and scam free!