Watch out for scammers, this holiday season.

Scamwatch is warning Nigerians to be careful about being caught out by holiday season scams.

Scammers will take advantage of special days or major events like Christmas to con people out of their money or personal information.

Here are three common holiday season scams people should look out for:

• Online shopping scams: scammers will set up fake online stores or post goods for sale in buy‑swap-sell groups or online classified sites to trick people into buying items that don’t exist. 

• Travel scams: scammers trick people into believing they’ve won a holiday or scored a really good deal on a travel package, like a cruise. Unfortunately the prize or the cheap accommodation are phony. 

• Parcel delivery scams: scammers may ask you to print off a label, do a survey, claim a prize, or view the status of your delivery by clicking on a link or downloading an attachment. Some scammers may even call or text with claims about an unsuccessful delivery. These scams are aimed at getting people to download malware onto their computer, or give up their personal information. 

How to protect yourself from Scams this season

Be sceptical about an online store you haven’t used before. Do some research to see if they’re legitimate and don’t be fooled by big discounts. 

With travel deals, call the accommodation provider directly, for example the cruise line or hotel, to check if the deal is legitimate.

We’re all expecting parcels this time of year but be careful about online links and never download attachments. If you’re wondering if a delivery notice is legitimate, check the tracking number at the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) or other delivery company website, or call them directly using a number you find from an online search or the phone book.

While with friends and family over the holidays, consider taking the opportunity to spread the warnings about these scams particularly to those loved ones who may be vulnerable.

Have you been scammed?

If you think you have scammed in an auction deal, contact the police  or other relevant agencies immediately.

We encourage you to report scams to us via the report a scam page. This helps us to warn people about current scams, monitor trends and disrupt scams where possible. Please include details of the scam contact you received, for example, email or screenshot.

We also provide guidance on protecting yourself from scams and where to get help.

Spread the word to your friends and family to protect them.