Christmas is a busy and joyful time of year, but unfortunately, it is also peak season for financial scams. As spending increases and inboxes fill with delivery notifications, invoices and “special offers”, fraudsters become more active and more convincing.

Below, we outline some of the most common Christmas scams and practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your business.

Common Christmas Scams to Watch Out For

1. Fake Delivery Messages
Scammers often send text messages or emails claiming a parcel could not be delivered due to an unpaid charge. These messages usually contain a link that leads to a fake website designed to steal your personal or card details.

✔ Tip: If you are expecting a delivery, go directly to the courier’s official website rather than clicking links in messages.

2. Phishing Emails Posing as Revenue or Banks
Fraudsters frequently impersonate Revenue, banks or well-known retailers, especially at year-end. These emails may request you to “confirm details” or warn of account suspension.

✔ Tip: Revenue and banks will never ask for sensitive information by email. When in doubt, contact them directly using verified contact details.

3. Invoice Fraud for Businesses
At Christmas, many businesses are short-staffed or rushed. Scammers exploit this by sending fake invoices or requesting changes to supplier bank details.

✔ Tip: Always verify changes to payment details with a known contact and maintain strong internal payment approval processes.

4. Fake Online Shopping Websites
Social media ads and emails may promote attractive Christmas deals that lead to cloned or fake websites. Payments are taken, but goods never arrive.

✔ Tip: Look for secure website indicators, read reviews, and be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true.

How Individuals Can Protect Themselves

• Never click links from unsolicited emails or texts

• Use strong, unique passwords for financial accounts

• Enable two-factor authentication where possible

• Regularly check bank and card statements

• Avoid sharing personal details on social media

How Businesses Can Reduce Fraud Risk

• Train staff to recognise phishing and scam emails

• Implement dual approval for payments

• Review supplier and payroll changes carefully

• Keep accounting software and systems up to date

• Back up data regularly

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you believe you’ve been targeted or affected by a scam:

• Contact your bank immediately

• Report the incident to An Garda Síochána

• Notify Revenue if tax or payroll data may be compromised

Early action can significantly reduce financial loss.