With the holidays here, and online shopping reaching its annual peak, scammers are out targeting your money and purchases. At Texas DPS Credit Union, we’re committed to keeping our members safe from fraud. Whether you’re managing your holiday budget or shopping for the perfect gift, it is important to watch for scams like non-delivery fraud. From online “retailers” phishing for information as you shop to thieves swiping delivered packages from doorsteps, non-delivery scams can be particularly difficult to spot, and recovery is nearly impossible. Here’s what you need to know about this scam.

What is a non-delivery scam?

In a non-delivery scam, a shopper makes an online purchase, often at a deep discount, but the promised package never arrives. After weeks of waiting, the shopper may try reaching out to the seller, only to find that the business has disappeared, along with the victim’s chances of recovering their money and/or their purchase.

This common scam highlights the importance of safe online shopping and financial security. Protecting yourself and your wallet by staying informed.

How to protect yourself

Here are some smart tips to ensure your online shopping experience is safe and secure:

• Never click on links or open attachments of unsolicited emails or on social media.
• Keep your phone, tablet, or computer updated with the latest security.
• Check the websites’ authenticity by opting out of websites that are full of typos and/or grammatical errors. Check each website’s URL for authentic spelling and signs of security, like the “https” and padlock symbol.
• Research sellers when shopping before sharing any information or making a purchase. Check reviews or ratings on trusted platforms like Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Avoid making payments by prepaid gift cards or wire transfer. When shopping online, it’s best to use a credit card, like the Texas DPS Visa card that offers added fraud protection.
• Stay away from sellers who advertise as if they are residents of the U.S. and then respond to questions by claiming they are out of the country.
• Be wary of items with prices that are too good to be true–they probably are!

What to do if you’re targeted

If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a non-delivery scam, there are steps you can take to mitigate damage.

1. First, if you’ve paid by credit card, call the company to dispute the charge as soon as you recognize the scam.
2. Next, alert the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and file a complaint to help them track scammers if the alleged retailer is on the (BBB) website, you can let them know, too.

Stay safe with Texas DPS Credit Union

At TXDPSCU, we prioritize financial wellness and online safety. Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts or managing your savings account, our secure cards and fraud protection services have you covered. Shop smart this season and follow the tips outlined here to avoid getting scammed. For more helpful resources, visit our Fraud and Security Page or speak with one of our financial experts.