Day 8 – The Fake E-Card Scam
When “Season’s Greetings” Come with a Sting
There’s something charming about receiving an unexpected message at Christmas, a surprise email saying, “Someone special sent you an e-card!” It might even have festive music and animated snowflakes.
But in many cases, that “someone special” isn’t a friend, it’s a fraudster.
How the Scam Works
Scammers send out fake Christmas e-cards and festive messages designed to trick you into clicking a malicious link or downloading a file. The email or text looks innocent enough, colourful graphics, cheerful wording, even a familiar sender name.
When you click the link, one of two things happens:
- You’re taken to a phishing website that asks you to log in or enter personal details; or
- Malware quietly downloads onto your device, allowing scammers to steal passwords or monitor activity.
The same trick also appears on social media or instant messages, “Check out this Christmas video just for you!”
Signs an E-Card Might Be Fake
- The sender’s name or address looks slightly off, like
john-smith@mailcards.coinstead ofjohnsmith@gmail.com. - The email subject feels vague or generic, “You’ve received a Christmas card!”
- It includes links that don’t clearly match the e-card company’s official website.
- You’re asked to download attachments or “enable content.”
Even if it appears to come from a friend, scammers can spoof real email addresses to make it seem authentic.
How to Stay Safe
- Stop and look at who really sent the message, don’t be rushed by curiosity.
- Check directly with the person who “sent” it, a quick message could save you.
- Ask yourself if you were expecting anything. If not, it’s best left unopened.
- Monitor your accounts and update antivirus protection regularly.
If you accidentally click on a link, disconnect from the internet, run a security scan, and change your passwords immediately.
A Festive Reflection
Digital greetings are lovely, but real friends won’t mind if you double-check before opening one.
So before you click “open card,” take a moment to Stop • Check • Ask • Monitor, and keep your Christmas messages merry, not malicious.
View other days of the 12 Scams of Christmas
BeScamAware.org — Stay alert, stay safe.