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Are you expecting the perfect Christmas present to arrive right on your doorstep?
If so, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is raising awareness and warning shoppers to beware of scammers around the holidays.
In a news release Thursday, the FTC said scammers are sending fake invoices and shipping messages.
But these scammers have malicious intent and are trying to steal consumers' personal information, the government organization warned.
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The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned online shoppers to watch out for scammers during the holiday season. (iStock / iStock)
As with many scams, the FTC said scammers mimic the practice of many companies and send confirmation emails and text messages following the order.
However, the scammer's nearly identical message deceives consumers by asking them to click on a link.
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The FTC said scammers may say the consumer missed a delivery attempt and ask them to click a link to reschedule delivery. Or it could say the item is ready to ship, but the consumer needs to update their shipping preferences.
Other scams create a sense of urgency by saying that if the consumer does not respond immediately, they will return the package to the sender.
Boxes on display at a U.S. Postal Service facility in Van Nuys, California (Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images/File/Getty Images)
According to authorities, the scammer hopes the victim will click on the link, which will immediately prompt them to enter personal information, including online banking information, social media accounts and email addresses.
The FTC warned that clicking on the scammer's link could also install malicious malware on the victim's phone or computer that steals personal information.
FedEx employees make deliveries. (iStock / iStock)
What to do:
- If you receive a message about an unexpected package delivery, a bill for something you didn't order, or anything else that asks you to click a link or call a number, don't do it.
- If you believe the message is legitimate, contact the shipping company using a phone number or website that you know is real. Do not use the information in the message.
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- If you think it might be something you recently ordered, go to the website where you purchased the item and check the shipping and delivery status there.
“No matter the time of year, it’s always worth protecting your personal information,” the FTC said.
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