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During the holidays, Grinches are always looking to relieve you of hard-earned coin. Guardsman wants you to be mindful so you can protect yourself (and your coin).

Be Mindful When Using ATMs

If you need to withdraw cash during the busy season, choose ATMs that are located in well-lit, secure areas. Always check for unusual devices or tampering before using the machine to prevent card skimming.

Watch Out for Holiday Scams

Be cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, or messages asking for money or personal details. Scammers often increase their activity during the holiday season. Stick to trusted payment methods, and always verify the legitimacy of requests before making any transactions.

Secure Your Payment Methods

With the rise in online shopping, ensure your credit and debit cards are secure. Use reputable websites and payment platforms that offer buyer protection. If you use mobile payments, double-check your security settings to avoid unauthorised transactions.

Stay Vigilant About Online Transactions

During the silly season, cybercrime tends to spike. Keep your devices and accounts secure by using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and avoiding suspicious links or pop-ups that may attempt to steal your financial data.

Track Your Spending with Technology

Use apps or financial tools to track your expenditures, categorise your spending, and keep an eye on your savings goals. These tools can help you stay on top of your finances and prevent post-holiday debt.

Plan for Post-Holiday Bills

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season, but don’t forget about bills that will come after. Save some cash in advance to cover expenses like utilities, loan repayments, or unexpected costs once the holiday season ends.

Plan for Holiday Travel Expenses

For those travelling, plan how you’ll carry cash or cards. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Instead, use travel-friendly credit or prepaid cards. Always keep your travel documents and cards in a secure, separate location.