AARP Fraud Watch Network Warns Holiday Scams Are on the Rise Across the Country

Fraud targeting online shoppers and holiday donors continues to surge nationwide, according to a new report from the AARP Fraud Watch Network. As millions prepare to shop and give online this season, scammers are capitalizing on fake shipping alerts, bogus charities, and gift card scams to steal money and personal information.

The 2025 AARP Holiday Shopping and Scams Report reveals that 89 percent of U.S. adults have experienced at least one scam, from fake toll payment texts and phony charity appeals to misleading digital ads. More than half of adults reported receiving a fake shipping notice this year, while nearly 4 in 10 encountered deceptive ads on social media.

“Criminals are relentless during the holidays, exploiting the many opportunities that come with a busy season—from shopping and traveling to charitable giving,” said Jennifer Carlson, AARP Ohio State Director. “Understanding how they operate is the first step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones.”

• Nearly 9 in 10 adults have experienced at least one type of fraud.
• More than half received a fake toll payment or shipping text in the past year.
• Nearly 4 in 10 were targeted through social media ads—an increase from last year.
• About one-third received a fraudulent charity donation request.
• 3 in 10 have had a package stolen outside their home.

Consumers are also increasingly being targeted through peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps, with two in five users saying they have sent money to someone they did not know. Despite growing awareness, many people underestimate the risks of using debit cards or fail to verify charitable organizations before donating.

AARP Ohio recently hosted a timely Facebook Live event, “Holiday Scam Season: Live Q&A with Ohio’s Consumer Pros,” where participants learned about emerging scams, asked questions and received practical tips to stay safe.

The interactive session featured Jenny Carlson, AARP Ohio Director; Helen Mac Murray, Consumer Protection Attorney; and Rep. Phil Plummer, Ohio House District 39 and former Montgomery County Sheriff. Watch it now.

Learn more and access free scam prevention resources at aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork. The site offers fraud alerts, prevention tips and AARP’s hit podcast, The Perfect Scam. Get news and events from AARP Ohio