Fraud Watch December 2025: Wrap Up Your Finances Before the Scammers Do

As the year comes to a close, scammers ramp up their efforts, taking advantage of seasonal job searches, holiday excitement, and increased online activity. Fraudsters often rely on urgency, pressure, and unfamiliar technology to trick people into acting quickly. Being aware of common scams is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your finances this December.

Job Scams

Job scams often target individuals searching for seasonal or remote work, particularly during the holiday season. Scammers may post fake job listings, conduct interviews via text or messaging apps, and offer high pay for minimal work. Victims are commonly asked to pay upfront fees, purchase equipment, or share personal and banking information.

How To Protect Yourself:

• Research the company.
• Be cautious of unsolicited job offers.
• Do not pay money or share sensitive information to secure your employment.

Sweepstakes Winner Scams

Sweepstakes scams claim you’ve won a prize, gift card, or cash award, but require payment or personal information before you can collect it. These scams often arrive through phone calls, emails, texts, or social media messages and may use official-sounding names or logos. Legitimate sweepstakes never ask winners to pay fees or taxes upfront; in fact, it’s downright illegal.

How To Protect Yourself:

• Ignore unexpected prize notifications.
• Never send money or personal details to claim your “prize.”

Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams often start with a pop-up message on your computer, phone, or tablet, or with an unexpected phone call or email. The message may warn that your device has a serious problem and needs immediate attention. Scammers pretend to be from well-known companies and pressure you to let them access your device or pay for services you don’t need. Once they gain access, they can steal personal information or damage your device.

How To Protect Yourself:

• Don’t click on any pop-ups claiming there’s an issue with your computer.
• Ignore unsolicited tech support numbers.
• Contact your device manufacturer and the FTC if you suspect your device has been hacked.