Christmas 2025 Scam Alert: Beware of Fake Gifts, Coupons—Bank Accounts at Risk

As Christmas 2025 approaches, cybercriminals are using the festive season to trick people with fake gifts, coupons, and cash vouchers. These scams are rising rapidly, with attackers exploiting users’ trust and emotional goodwill during the holidays. Alarmingly, scam messages often appear to come from friends or family whose accounts may already have been hacked.

How the Scam Works
The scam usually begins with a simple “Merry Christmas” message, followed by a note claiming that a gift or Christmas bonus is waiting for the recipient. Examples include messages like:

• “Merry Christmas! You’ve received a gift”
• “Christmas bonus waiting for you”

These messages contain hidden links that redirect users to fake websites resembling well-known brands, banks, or payment platforms.

The Danger of Clicking Links
Once a user clicks the link, they may be asked to provide personal details, mobile numbers, or banking information, or install an app granting permissions. In some cases, simply clicking the link installs malware on the device, giving scammers remote access. They can then read OTPs, access banking apps, and perform unauthorized transactions.

Why Holiday Scams Increase
During festive seasons, people are often distracted, relaxed, and emotionally engaged, making them more vulnerable. Scammers exploit this by creating urgency with messages like “Offer ends today” or “Claim your Christmas reward now”, prompting victims to click links without verifying them.

Precautions to Stay Safe

• Verify every message claiming free gifts, cashback, or vouchers.
• Never click links asking for OTPs, card details, or app downloads via WhatsApp.
• Check for spelling mistakes, unfamiliar URLs, and suspicious requests to forward messages—common signs of scams.
• Be cautious even if the message comes from friends or family, as their accounts may be compromised.

Cybersecurity experts advise vigilance during holiday seasons, as scams exploit the festive spirit to steal money and sensitive information. Stay alert to avoid falling victim to these deceptive tactics.