With the holiday shopping season in full swing, NatWest is raising awareness about the rising threat of purchase scams. The bank has introduced a creative "Scamvent" calendar, designed to educate British shoppers on the 12 most common types of scams targeting festive purchases.
A season of increased scam activity
Recent research from NatWest highlights the prevalence of scams during November and December, with 41% of British adults reporting more scam approaches in these months. In 2022 alone, a record £85.9 million was lost to purchase scams, with 92% originating online. Phones (26%), tickets (23%), and gift cards (23%) top the list of scam-prone items, making holiday shoppers particularly vulnerable.
Raising awareness through innovation
The Scamvent calendar, available in select NatWest branches, combines education with seasonal charm. Behind each door lies an artisan chocolate paired with tips to recognize and avoid common scams. Fraud experts emphasize vigilance when shopping for high-demand items like electronics, jewelry, and luxury goods, which scammers often use to lure victims through fake websites or ads.
Hannah Byczkowski and Wilf Webster, stars of The Traitors, are partnering with NatWest to promote the initiative. Drawing on their experiences navigating deception, they share tips to help the public identify fraudulent schemes.
Expert advice to stay safe
Stuart Skinner, Fraud Expert at NatWest, urges consumers to stay cautious: “Scammers use a variety of tricks to target online shoppers. Take time to verify deals, avoid impulse purchases, and check for red flags.” NatWest’s Security Center offers additional resources to protect against fraud this season.
The Scamvent calendar is a timely reminder for shoppers to remain vigilant and informed, ensuring their holidays are joyful and scam-free.
