Holiday Scams Are Rising: How WNY Shoppers Can Stay Safe

Ellen Fenton Co. Insurance

The holidays in Western New York always seem to arrive overnight, one minute we’re raking leaves, the next we’re navigating snow squalls, shopping lists, and school concerts.

It’s a busy, joyful, whirlwind time of year.

But it’s also the season when holiday scams and online fraud spike… and this year, they’re showing up earlier and smarter than ever.

From fake shipping texts to “too good to be true” ads, scammers know that people are shopping more, rushing more, and letting their guard down. Even the most careful shoppers get caught — not because they’re careless, but because these scams are designed to look legitimate.

As your local insurance team, we want to make sure your holiday season stays merry (and scam-free), so here’s what we’re seeing across WNY right now — and how to protect yourself.

Why Scams Surge This Time of Year

The holiday rush creates the perfect storm:

• Online orders increase

• Weather delays normalize strange shipping updates

• Social media is full of seasonal ads — real and fake

• People are distracted, traveling, or juggling celebrations

Scammers take advantage of that. They mimic trusted brands, local businesses, delivery carriers, and even charity organizations. A message might look familiar — until it’s too late.

Common Holiday Scams Showing Up in WNY

Here’s what we’ve seen circulating already:

1. Fake Shipping Notifications

Texts claiming a UPS/USPS/ FedEx delay, asking you to “confirm” your info.

Tip: Carriers never ask for personal information by text.

2. Phony Social Shop Pages

Pop-up Facebook or Instagram shops selling toys, decor, or “limited holiday deals”—then disappearing after payment.

3. Gift Card Trap Discounts

“If you buy today, we’ll double it!”

Once you send the gift card info, it’s gone.

4. Vacation & Ski Weekend Rental Scams

Fraudulent listings are showing up in local groups, especially around Ellicottville, Holiday Valley, and ski-town stays.

5. Charity Impersonation Scams

Fake donation pages pretending to be WNY food pantries or nonprofits.

If something feels even slightly “off,” trust your instinct — and verify directly with the organization or retailer.

How Your Insurance Can Actually Help

Most people don’t realize insurance can support them after certain types of fraud or identity theft — and sometimes the coverage is already built in.

Identity Theft Coverage

Helps with recovering your identity, replacing documents, legal costs, and lost wages.

Cyber Fraud Protection

Can assist in recovering financial losses tied to online scams.

Optional Homeowners/Renters Add-Ons

Often cost less than one holiday outing, and provide year-round peace of mind.

If you aren’t sure what you currently have, that’s where we come in.

We can review your coverage, walk through gaps, and help you choose what makes sense — no pressure.

Simple Ways to Stay Safe While Shopping

A quick list worth saving and sharing:

• Don’t click on unexpected text links

• Type the retailer’s website into your browser instead

• Double-check URLs (scammers love 1-letter differences)

• Avoid wiring money or paying through gift cards

• Use credit over debit for online purchases

• Turn on two-factor authentication

• Verify charity links before donating

Small steps make a big difference.

A Local Reminder From Our Family to Yours

At Ellen Fenton & Company, we know the holidays bring enough stress — weather delays, travel plans, school schedules — without adding scams to the list.

If something doesn’t look right or you just want reassurance, call us.

You’re never just a policy number here. We’re your neighbors.

We’re here to help you enjoy the season, shop safely, and step into the New Year with peace of mind.

Have questions about cyber or identity theft protection?

Give us a call or send a message — we’re happy to take a look at your coverage anytime this week.