December 22, 2025 By Hilary Jenison, Sponsored by South Shore Bank
The holidays arrive with a welcome sense of warmth and possibility. Calendars fill with gatherings, travel plans, and last-minute shopping. Amid all the excitement, it is easy to overlook the small habits that keep your finances protected. Unfortunately, this is also the time of year when scammers become more active, often hoping that busy schedules and distracted moments will work in their favor.
South Shore Bank encourages you to take a few simple precautions so you can stay focused on what matters most. A little awareness goes a long way in making sure your season is joyful and your accounts stay secure.
1. Use Card Management Tools
Take advantage of your bank’s card controls for peace of mind and convenience. You can turn cards on or off, set spending limits, and monitor where your card information is stored online. These tools give you full visibility into how your cards are being used.
2. Watch Out for Payment App Scams
Apps like Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, and CashApp are helpful but can also be targets for fraud. Always confirm the recipient before sending money and be cautious of “pay yourself” scams that attempt to trick you into sending funds to a fraudster.
3. Verify Charitable Organizations Before Donating
The season inspires generosity, but fraudulent charities may try to take advantage of donors. Review guidance from the Federal Trade Commission and research organizations before you give. A quick check helps ensure your donation reaches the right cause.
4. Stay Alert to Phishing Attempts
Phishing emails and messages often increase during the holidays. They may appear legitimate while attempting to steal sensitive information such as passwords or credit card details. Do not click unfamiliar links and verify senders before responding.
5. Use Safe Mailing Practices
If you are mailing gifts or checks, take care with how you send them. Fraudsters sometimes target blue mailboxes to steal checks and alter them through check washing. Use secure drop locations or bring mail directly to a post office.
6. Enroll in Online and Mobile Banking
Online and mobile banking offer secure, round the clock access to your accounts. Real time monitoring helps you track spending, catch suspicious activity quickly, and manage your finances with ease throughout the busy season.
South Shore Bank is committed to helping you make smart, confident financial choices. With these tips, you can enjoy a safe, festive, and worry-free holiday season.
Thank you to South Shore Bank for supporting local community news through this sponsorship.