5 Scams To Watch Out For In NYC This Holiday Season

NEW YORK, NY — The holidays are a time for joy and good will, but unfortunately plenty of people want to take advantage of your holiday cheer. Officials are warning New York City consumers to be wary of Grnches looking to scam they as they shop for gifts.

"Scammers use the busy holiday season to prey on unsuspecting shoppers, creating phony online retailers and deals to steal your credit card information or identity," said the city's consumer affairs commissioner, Lorelei Salas.

"We encourage everyone to follow these tips to protect themselves and ensure the holiday season is a time of joy and not frustration, or lost identity or money."

The Department of Consumer Affairs says to look out for five scams that are especially prevalent during the holiday season.

Fake apps: Some scammers create mock shopping apps that look legitimate. They can pester you with pop-up ads, install malware on your phone or even steal your credit card information. Check each app's reviews before installing it. If you're trying to buy from a specific store, go to the store's website to make sure you're getting the official app.

Gift card scams: Online scammers try to offer free gift cards in exchange for personal information, or make you pay for a gift card that has no balance on it. Also be wary of anyone who asks you to pay a bill with a gift card. Government agencies and public utilities, such as Con Edison and National Grid, will never ask you to pay bills with a gift card.

Delivery scams: Be on the lookout for emails or text messages that tell you you're getting a delivery but ask for personal information. Contact the carrier directly if you have questions about a delivery. It's also likely a scam if someone comes to your door with a package asking you to pay a "delivery charge." As package theft is more common during the holidays, get your packages delivered to a safe, secure location.

Temporary holiday jobs scams: Those looking for extra work during the holidays should watch out for jobs advertised online that ask for your personal information or ask you to pay a fee before starting work.

Social media gift exchange: Some scammers try to convince people that they'll get up to 36 gifts in return for sending a $10 gift to a stranger. "This is an illegal pyramid scheme, and it can be a way for scammers to get a hold of your personal contact information," the Department of Consumer Affairs says.

You can find more holiday shopping tips at the Department of Consumer Affairs website.

(Lead image: Photo by Jane M Sawyer via Morguefile)