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'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams

Posted on 12/10/24

As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.

The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.

When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.

 

 

This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the AARP Maryland page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.

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  Monday, Jan 27, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. ET

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 13, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/smart-drivertek-workshop-discover-the-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-6kng5c5q2hm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SMART-DRIVERTEK-WORKSHOP-DISCOVER-THE-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">Smart DriverTEK Workshop: Discover the Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 13, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/smart-drivertek-workshop-discover-the-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-6kng5c5q2hm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SMART-DRIVERTEK-WORKSHOP-DISCOVER-THE-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">Smart DriverTEK Workshop: Discover the Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/a-girlfriendtogirlfriend-workshop-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-5jnt4dgs7qr.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GIRLFRIENDTOGIRLFRIEND-WORKSHOP-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">A Girlfriend-to-Girlfriend Workshop - Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
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		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ANNAPOLIS-MD">Renew</a> or 
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<h2>Contact AARP <br />in Annapolis</h2>
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-maryland-contact-information/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ANNAPOLIS-MD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 13, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/smart-drivertek-workshop-discover-the-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-6kng5c5q2hm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SMART-DRIVERTEK-WORKSHOP-DISCOVER-THE-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">Smart DriverTEK Workshop: Discover the Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/a-girlfriendtogirlfriend-workshop-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-5jnt4dgs7qr.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GIRLFRIENDTOGIRLFRIEND-WORKSHOP-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">A Girlfriend-to-Girlfriend Workshop - Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li>

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 13, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/smart-drivertek-workshop-discover-the-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-6kng5c5q2hm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SMART-DRIVERTEK-WORKSHOP-DISCOVER-THE-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">Smart DriverTEK Workshop: Discover the Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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			<p><a class="link-red" href="/annapolis-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ANNAPOLIS-MD">Renew</a> or 
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li>

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Annapolis</h2>
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					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 13, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/smart-drivertek-workshop-discover-the-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-6kng5c5q2hm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SMART-DRIVERTEK-WORKSHOP-DISCOVER-THE-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">Smart DriverTEK Workshop: Discover the Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Jan 24, 2025 at 3:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/a-girlfriendtogirlfriend-workshop-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-5jnt4dgs7qr.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GIRLFRIENDTOGIRLFRIEND-WORKSHOP-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">A Girlfriend-to-Girlfriend Workshop - Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 27, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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			<p><a class="link-red" href="/annapolis-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
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		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
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		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ANNAPOLIS-MD">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ANNAPOLIS-MD">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
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<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
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<h2>Contact AARP <br />in Annapolis</h2>
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MDAARP@aarp.org</a></li>

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/power-up-your-knowledge-on-electric-vehicles-g8n9h8w7lrw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-POWER-UP-YOUR-KNOWLEDGE-ON-ELECTRIC-VEHICLES">Power Up Your Knowledge on Electric Vehicles</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 13, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/smart-drivertek-workshop-discover-the-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-6kng5c5q2hm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SMART-DRIVERTEK-WORKSHOP-DISCOVER-THE-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">Smart DriverTEK Workshop: Discover the Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Jan 24, 2025 at 3:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/a-girlfriendtogirlfriend-workshop-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-5jnt4dgs7qr.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GIRLFRIENDTOGIRLFRIEND-WORKSHOP-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">A Girlfriend-to-Girlfriend Workshop - Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 27, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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			<p><a class="link-red" href="/annapolis-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
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		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ANNAPOLIS-MD">Renew</a> or 
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-maryland-contact-information/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ANNAPOLIS-MD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMD" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a>
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				Posted on 12/10/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As online holiday shopping ramps up, so do scam attempts. A new AARP survey shows that over 80% of adults have faced some form of holiday-related fraud, yet many of us are unaware of scammers’ tactics – especially online.<br><br>The AARP holiday scams survey identified three specific threat areas: online shopping scams, gift cards with zero balance scams, and shipping scams. Here are tips to keep yourself safe from these deceptive tactics this winter.<br><br>When shopping online, visit sites you know and trust, and avoid clicking on offers or advertisements for deep discounts on hot items. The safest way to give a gift card is by purchasing it online through the retailer’s website. Check the balance when you receive a card and use it sooner than later. Lastly, if you receive a text claiming ‘problems’ with a shipment, don’t engage with it; if you are concerned about the status of a package, contact the shipper directly.<br><br>Be a fraud fighter! If you can <u>spot</u> a scam, you can <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><span class="Link"><u>stop</u> a scam</span></span></span>.<br><br><b>Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork</b></a></span></span>.<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;<br><br></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank">AARP Maryland</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/power-up-your-knowledge-on-electric-vehicles-g8n9h8w7lrw.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-POWER-UP-YOUR-KNOWLEDGE-ON-ELECTRIC-VEHICLES">Power Up Your Knowledge on Electric Vehicles</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 13, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/smart-drivertek-workshop-discover-the-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-6kng5c5q2hm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SMART-DRIVERTEK-WORKSHOP-DISCOVER-THE-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">Smart DriverTEK Workshop: Discover the Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Jan 24, 2025 at 3:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/a-girlfriendtogirlfriend-workshop-safety-benefits-of-new-car-tech-5jnt4dgs7qr.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GIRLFRIENDTOGIRLFRIEND-WORKSHOP-SAFETY-BENEFITS-OF-NEW-CAR-TECH">A Girlfriend-to-Girlfriend Workshop - Safety Benefits of New Car Tech</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Monday, Jan 27, 2025 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/annapolis-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
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		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ANNAPOLIS-MD">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ANNAPOLIS-MD">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
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<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP <br />in Annapolis</h2>
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<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MDAARP@aarp.org</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-maryland-contact-information/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ANNAPOLIS-MD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

</ul>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMD" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmd/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>

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