Halloween Scams That Trick Instead of Treat

As the leaves turn and the nights grow longer, Halloween is creeping up on us like a ghost in the night! Whether you’re hunting for the perfect costume or anxiously waiting for those cobweb-laden decorations to arrive, it’s essential to keep your eyes peeled for those pesky Halloween scams that lurk around every corner. From phony sales to deceptive websites, scammers are ready to trick you instead of treating you. So grab your broomstick and get ready for a spook-tacular guide filled with tips to keep you safe this haunting season.

Fake Costume Sites

Still can’t decide whether to go as a vampire or a witch? Before you dive headfirst into the online costume frenzy, watch out for those fraudulent websites that are more tricks than treats! One infamous scam site has been dressing up as the beloved Spirit Halloween store, leaving unsuspecting shoppers feeling spooked when their orders never arrive. Remember, not all that glitters is gold, especially in the world of online shopping!

Scammers promote this fake website with eye-catching ads on social media, offering big discounts to lure people in. But buying from these scam websites is a risky move! Often, the products you order never show up. These sites aim to steal your money and your personal information, like your email address and credit card details. Once they have your info, they could sell it to other criminals on the dark web or use it for more scams. So, always double-check before you click to keep your wallet safe this Halloween!

Example of a dubious Halloween shopping site

Fake Delivery Failure Notifications

Another sinister trick to watch out for this Halloween is the fake delivery failure notification. Scammers have perfected the art of making these messages look so convincing, you'd swear they were real. The message typically claims that your eagerly awaited package couldn't be delivered—perhaps it's that spooky costume or the eerie decorations you ordered. It urges you to click on a link to "confirm your address" so they can supposedly attempt another delivery.

But here's the catch: that link leads straight to trouble! Instead of helping to resolve your delivery issue, it often directs you to a website designed to steal your personal details, like your home address and financial information. This scam is even more sneaky because it can easily blend in with the usual updates you get from delivery services, making it tough to spot at first glance.

The best way to dodge this scare is to never click on links in unexpected delivery notifications. Always go directly to the retailer’s app or website to check the status of your order. Scammers are counting on you to panic and click the link without thinking, but taking a moment to verify could save you from falling into their trap.

Customs Clearance Text Scams

While this next scam isn’t exactly Halloween-themed, it’s a real fright for anyone planning to buy costumes or decorations online! This sneaky trick, known as smishing (that’s SMS phishing for you), sends a text claiming that a package you ordered couldn’t get through customs. The message will urge you to reply or click on a link (which looks innocent enough but is anything but).

Once you click that link, it probably takes you to a shady website designed to steal your personal information. Just like our first scam, this information could end up being sold on the dark web or used for other dishonest purposes. So, if you get a text like this, don’t be fooled! Just remember: if it sounds fishy, it probably is. 

How to Avoid Halloween Scams

With all the excitement of Halloween—picking out costumes, decorating your house, and stocking up on candy—scammers are lurking in the shadows, ready to take advantage. But fear not! You can protect yourself from their tricks with a few simple precautions. Here’s how to avoid getting caught in a scam this spooky season:

• Check websites before you buy- Make sure the website is real. Look for "https" in the web address and check reviews if you’re not familiar with the site.
• Be careful with deals that seem too good- If a costume or decoration is super cheap, it might be a scam. Trust your instincts.
• Don’t click on links in random messages- If you get a text or email with a link, go directly to the store’s website or app to check.
• Use safe payment options- Pay with a credit card or a secure method that offers protection. Don’t use wire transfers or payment methods that can’t be tracked.
• Watch out for fake delivery alerts- If you get a message saying your package wasn’t delivered, check your order status through the store’s app instead of clicking the link.

Bottom Line: Keep your Wits

Don’t let scammers ruin your Halloween fun. Follow these easy tips, stay alert, and enjoy your spooky season without the worry!

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