After the holidays, many people are returning gifts, reviewing credit card statements, and watching for refunds. Scammers know this and take advantage of the increased activity by posing as retailers, delivery companies, or financial institutions.
Post-holiday refund scams are designed to create urgency and pressure you into sharing sensitive information before you have time to verify the request.
How These Scams Work
You may receive a call, email, or text claiming there is an issue with a recent return or refund. Common messages include:
- A refund could not be processed
- Additional information is needed to issue your refund
- A charge must be reversed immediately
These messages often reference recent purchases or familiar retailers to appear legitimate.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of messages that:
- Ask you to click a link to “fix” a refund
- Request account numbers, card details, or verification codes
- Create urgency or threaten account issues
- Come from unfamiliar senders or contain poor grammar
Legitimate businesses will not ask for sensitive information through unsolicited messages.
What GCSB Will Never Do
GCSB will never ask for your online banking password, verification codes, or pressure you to act immediately to receive a refund. We will also never request that you move money to another account for security purposes. If you receive a message asking for this information, it is a scam.
Protect Yourself This New Year
Check refund status directly through a retailer’s official website or app. Avoid clicking links in unexpected messages, and take a moment to pause before responding. If something doesn’t feel right, stop and verify by contacting GCSB using a phone number you trust or visiting a branch.
Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself, and GCSB is here to help you start the new year safely and confidently.