'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams

With the holiday season underway, AARP Wisconsin is reminding members to be vigilant about fraud.

When shopping, use credit cards instead of debit cards. Credit cards may carry a liability of $50 for fraudulent use, but debit cards typically have no such protection. If you’re buying gift cards this year, be sure they are shrink-wrapped or kept behind a counter. Thieves can secretly scan the numbers off those that are openly displayed and drain the funds once a card is activated.

As for year-end charitable contributions, check out give.org or charitynavigator.org to make sure the organizations seeking your donations spend their money responsibly.

For more tips, go to fraudwatchnetwork.org. To become a volunteer fraud fighter, email wistate@aarp.org or call Jeannie Tucker of AARP Wisconsin at 608-286-6300.