5 festive scams to look out for this year

Don’t let fraudsters steal your festive joy this year.

The festive season is here, and chances are you’ve already started your Christmas shopping – or you’re gearing up for those tempting Black Friday deals. This year, British consumers are expected to spend nearly £14 billion over the Black Friday period.

But while we’re in the spirit of giving, fraudsters are in the business of taking. They’re dusting off their scams and looking for ways to steal your money.

Last Christmas, UK shoppers lost over £11.8 million to online shopping fraud, with thousands of cases reported between November 2024 and January 2025. That’s up from £11.5 million the previous year, making vigilance more important than ever.

Here are five scams to watch out for this festive season – and how to protect yourself and those around you:

1. The ’too good to be true’ online deal

This time of year, more than ever, fraudsters create fake websites or social media ads offering huge discounts and competitions on popular gifts. You pay or enter the competition, but then the item never arrives. This is the most common type of purchase scam, making up 72% of all cases in the first half of 2025. 

Tip: Stick to reputable retailers and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Always check the website URL carefully and look for secure payment Indicators. Do your research on the seller beforehand, avoid paying using bank transfer, and be wary of unrealistic discounts.

2. Unexpected delivery texts

With the Christmas postal rush, scammers often send very convincing fake texts or emails claiming a missed delivery from ’Royal Mail’ or ’Evri’, knowing many people are waiting for parcels. These can appear legitimate. However, they may ask for a small fee or personal details to rearrange delivery. 66% of purchase fraud cases began online or via telecom networks in H1 2025.

Tip: Never click links in unexpected delivery messages. Instead, check tracking directly on the official website or app.

3. E-card or gift card scams

E-cards and gift cards can seem like a fun, easy way to send festive greetings, but scammers sometimes use fake versions to sneak harmful software onto your device, which can steal your personal or financial details.

Tip: Be cautious with unexpected e-cards or gift cards. If you receive one, don’t click links or download attachments unless you’re sure it’s from someone you know. When in doubt, confirm with the sender before opening.

4. Phony charity appeals

The festive season is a time for giving, and many people choose to donate to charity instead of sending Christmas cards or gifts. Fraudsters know this and are willing to exploit generosity with fake charity websites and donation requests.

Tip: Always verify charities before you make a donation and only donate via official channels.

5. Fake tickets

Experience gifts are always popular, and many people buy tickets for concerts or sporting events as presents. But if you’re purchasing tickets for a live event, take extra care as fake listings are common and could leave you out of pocket.

Tip: Before buying, check the event’s official website for approved sellers, avoid paying by bank transfer, and use secure payment options like credit cards.

Fraudsters thrive during the festive rush, but a few simple precautions can keep your celebrations (and finances) safe. For more tips and advice, visit our Protect Yourself from Fraud page.

Stay safe and enjoy a joyful and fraud-free festive season!

Sources:

Black Friday turning into Black Fraud Day, says UK cybersecurity chief | Black Friday | The Guardian

Bargain hunters urged to stay alert to cyber scams ahead… – NCSC.GOV.UK

Black Friday: UK shoppers to spend £14 billion amid scam warnings

‘Black Fraud Day’: shoppers warned over Black Friday scams | Scams | The Guardian

Warning as Britons prepare to spend £4 billion this Black Friday weekend | The Independent