Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald is calling on consumers across Northern Ireland to be extremely careful and vigilant regarding scams as the festive shopping season ramps up.

The Minister emphasised that fraudsters are active throughout the holidays, specifically targeting people who are busy preparing for Christmas. With the large volume of gift purchasing done online, she stressed the necessity of taking extra time to confirm that transactions are only being made with trusted sellers to avoid being caught out.

Dr Archibald stated: "Fraudsters don't stop for Christmas and will continue to operate, targeting people who are busy preparing for the festive season. With so many people shopping online for gifts it's worth taking a bit more time to ensure that you're only dealing with trusted sellers to avoid getting caught out by the scammers."

While she acknowledged that most transactions proceed smoothly, she warned that for "too many people across the north, Christmas will be spoiled, or even ruined, by heartless rogue traders operating online scams." She concluded by advising: "Whenever buying anything online, always exercise caution and make sure you think carefully before handing over any personal payment details."

The 12 Scams of Christmas

To help raise awareness of the prevalent fraud types during the holiday period, the Trading Standards Service (TSS) is highlighting the '12 scams of Christmas'.

Damien Doherty, TSS Chief Inspector, warned that scammers quickly exploit vulnerabilities, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas. He cautioned that what appears to be a bargain could result in severe financial loss, with criminals attempting to steal payment details, sell dangerous counterfeit goods, or take money for items that are never delivered.

The 12 scams consumers should be alert for include:

1. Delivery Scams: Fraudsters posing as known delivery companies send emails claiming they could not deliver a parcel and ask for a fee to rearrange, tricking customers into clicking links that steal personal and financial information.

2. Social Media Advert Scams: Fake promotions and seemingly great deals are advertised on social media and sent via email, aiming only to collect personal and payment details.

3. Romance Scams: Targeting lonely or vulnerable individuals, scammers establish an emotional bond before eventually requesting financial support for transport or other means.

4. Loan and Finance Scams: Capitalising on Christmas overspending, these schemes offer guaranteed loans or unbeatable rates but ask for an advance fee, which genuine lenders do not. 5. Weight Loss Scams: These often target consumers making New Year resolutions, duping them into signing up for expensive monthly product subscriptions under the guise of paying only for postage on a 'free sample.'

6. Counterfeit Goods: Fake items such as toys, electrical goods, cosmetics, and alcohol appear on online marketplaces. These are often poorly made, can be dangerous, and are not subject to standard safety testing.

7. Phone/Vishing Scams: Cold calls from individuals pretending to represent retailers, charities, or delivery companies, attempting to trick people into giving away personal or financial details for fake prize draws or donations.

8. Ticket Fraud: Tickets for events are sold via fake sites, resulting in consumers paying for tickets that are never delivered, are counterfeit, or involve a failed promise to meet at the venue.

9. Pet Scams: Fraudulent online adverts for pets (e.g., pedigree puppies) pressure buyers to act fast and pay upfront for animals that often do not exist, leading to financial loss.

10. E-card Scams: Bogus digital greeting cards are used to infect computers with malware or steal financial and personal information.

11. Fake Shopping Website Scams: Websites created to look identical to legitimate retailers lure shoppers with deals that are "too good to miss," resulting in goods not being received and financial details being compromised.

12. Holiday Scams: Fraudsters exploit consumers booking holidays in the new year with fake accommodation listings, bogus booking websites, or fake competitions requiring a fee to secure a holiday.

How to Stay Safe from Christmas Scams

To protect themselves during the holidays, consumers are advised to follow these crucial steps:

• Never provide personal or financial information after being contacted via an unsolicited message or phone call.

• Avoid using bank transfers or instant cash apps for payments; use a credit card where possible for additional protection.

• Ensure websites start with "HTTPS" or display a locked padlock symbol.

• Double-check website and email sender URLs for authenticity, and look for spelling or grammatical errors, which often indicate a fake.

• Use strong, unique passwords and install security software from a trusted provider on all devices.

• Never click on links in delivery texts or emails. If expecting a parcel, track it or contact the delivery company only through their genuine website.

For advice, or to report a scam, consumers should contact Consumerline on 0300 123 6262 or submit a complaint online at www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/contact-consumerline-make-complaint-or-ask-advice.