The holiday season is a time for joy, generosity and connection — but it’s also one of the busiest times of year for scammers. As shopping and online activity surge, so do attempts to trick consumers into sharing personal information, sending money or clicking malicious links.
At AGCU, we want to help protect you and your family from holiday scams. Most holiday frauds are simply variations of everyday scams that take advantage of increased spending, shipping and charitable giving.
Common Holiday Scams
1. Fake Shopping Websites and “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Deals
Scammers create websites or social media posts impersonating major brands. These spoofing sites advertise incredible discounts on popular gift items — but the products never arrive. Worse, they may be designed to steal your payment and personal information.
2. Phony Order Confirmations and Coupon Emails
Fraudsters send realistic-looking order confirmations or delivery updates containing malicious links or fake tracking forms. Clicking these links can expose your information to criminals.
3. Gift Card Fraud
Gift cards remain a popular target for scammers. Thieves may tamper with cards in stores or trick people into paying for purchases, fees or donations with gift cards.
4. Fake Charity Appeals
Scammers exploit the season of giving by impersonating charities or ministries and pressuring people to donate immediately.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Huge discounts on popular products or limited-time deals from unfamiliar websites
- Spelling or formatting errors in emails or online stores
- Unsolicited messages asking you to click a link, download an app or confirm an order
- High-pressure tactics urging an immediate donation or purchase
- Requests for payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency or gift card
How to Protect Yourself
Shop Safely
Type the store’s web address directly into your browser instead of clicking links in unexpected emails or texts. Use trusted retailers and check the website address before entering payment information.
Pay Smart
Consider using a credit card when shopping online. Credit cards generally provide protections for unauthorized transactions and procedures for disputing billing errors.
Buy Gift Cards Wisely
Consider buying gift cards directly from the issuing business rather than from an unattended retail display. Register cards when possible and keep your receipt.
Stay Secure Online
Be cautious when shopping or accessing sensitive financial accounts on public Wi-Fi. Use trusted, secure connections whenever possible.
Verify Before You Give
Don’t let pressure rush your decision. Take time to verify a charity or ministry independently before sending money.
Smart Cybersecurity Habits for the Holidays
- Use strong, unique passwords for every account, and consider using a password manager.
- Enable biometrics or PINs on your phone and other devices.
- Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
- Watch for suspicious emails and texts. Don’t click unknown links or attachments.
- Monitor your accounts regularly and use available alerts for unusual activity.
- Keep your software and apps updated. Updates often contain important security fixes.
If You Suspect Fraud or Lose Your Card
If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud or your card is lost or stolen, contact us immediately.
Credit Cards
1-800-558-3424
24/7 assistance
Missionaries unable to dial 800 numbers may call 1-701-461-0125.
Debit Cards
If your debit card is lost or stolen, don’t wait to report it.
Call AGCU: 866-508-AGCU (2428)
Step 1: Report the Fraud
File a Debit Card Dispute Form
Or call 833-882-0867 to open a new fraud case on a closed card.
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7 p.m. CST
Voicemail is available after hours, and calls are returned the next business day.
Step 2: Request a Replacement Card
Always call AGCU at 866-508-2428 for a replacement card after reporting a lost or stolen card and speak with a Member Care Representative. Do not depend on email — speak to a person.
Email & Text Message Safety
AGCU will never solicit you for information relating to your account in an email or over the phone.
The NCUA (National Credit Union Administration) does not have personal information on AGCU’s membership. An email claiming to be from the NCUA and requesting your personal financial information is fraudulent.
If you have moved, we may contact you to verify your current address.
If you are suspicious of an email that appears to be from AGCU, call us directly at 866-508-2428 to verify it.
Keep Your Holiday Merry — and Your Money Safe
The holidays should be filled with joy, not worry. Stay cautious, stay informed and keep an eye on your accounts throughout the season.
Report FraudBanking with a Purpose.