As the holiday season kicks into high gear, so does the creativity of scammers looking to capitalize on the festive cheer. A recent report from Cambridge regarding the uptick in scam activity serves as a stark reminder to stay alert. "Scammers know that during the lead-up to the holidays, people are typically spending more, shopping online more often, and feeling generous," the Cambridge official news states, pointing out the heightened risk during these times.
Cambridge authorities are warning residents about common scams, including the utility shut-off scam, in which fraudsters impersonate utility company employees to pressure customers. Officials said that customers scheduled for disconnection due to nonpayment will always receive written notice by mail, and legitimate companies do not request payment via gift cards or Bitcoin. Authorities also cautioned about overpayment scams, fraudulent charity appeals, and counterfeit offers on e-commerce sites and marketplaces, which often increase during the holiday season.
Cambridge authorities warn that scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, including phishing emails offering fake gift cards and promotions, to target shoppers. Officials advise residents not to wire money to unknown individuals, avoid clicking on unexpected links, and refrain from making hasty payments to unverified sources.
Cambridge authorities are urging consumers to be cautious during the holiday shopping season. They advise residents to research sellers and consult legitimate websites before making purchases. Officials also recommend that anyone who falls victim to a scam immediately contact their financial institution and local law enforcement. Cambridge residents can report incidents to their local police department using the provided contact information.
