Beware of New Year scams

Protect yourself in 2025 

Scammers are ramping up their efforts in 2025 to exploit the season’s goodwill and New Year’s resolutions. These scams often target people’s desire for fresh starts, financial planning or holiday generosity. Here are some common scams to watch out for and tips to protect yourself.  

• Fake charities: Scammers create fake organizations, preying on the spirit of giving. Always verify a charity’s legitimacy through trusted sites like Charity Navigator or the IRS nonprofit database before donating. 

• Fitness and wellness scams: Many people aim to improve their health in the New Year, making fitness scams prevalent. Be cautious of “too-good-to-be-true” offers for gym memberships, supplements or weight-loss products. Research the company, read reviews and avoid sharing financial details with unverified sources. 

• Phishing emails and texts: Fraudulent messages claiming to offer discounts, refunds or prizes are rampant. These often link to fake websites designed to steal your personal information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, and directly visit official websites for offers. 

• Resolution-based scams: Scammers target people’s goals, such as career changes or financial resolutions. Be wary of job offers that require upfront fees or investment opportunities promising unrealistically high returns. 

How to stay safe: 

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. 
• Monitor your financial accounts for unauthorized transactions. 
• Stay skeptical of unsolicited offers, especially those with high-pressure tactics. 

By staying vigilant, researching thoroughly, and trusting your instincts, you can start the New Year confident and secure. Alpine Bank takes your financial security seriously, additional fraud and prevention resources can be found here. 

• January 29, 2025
• Digital
• Ross Bentzler

About This Author

Ross Bentzler

Ross Bentzler is Executive VP and Information Security Officer for Alpine Bank. Ross has worked in the information technology field for two decades, focusing on information security for 13 years.

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