As holiday shopping season kicks into high gear, state officials are warning Georgians to stay alert after new federal data revealed Americans lost nearly $13 billion to fraud last year. Georgia was among the hardest-hit states, with residents losing an estimated $300 million to cyber-related scams.

Georgia’s Consumer Protection Division says the busy shopping season, combined with an increase in charitable giving, creates the perfect opportunity for criminals to target consumers with fake deals, phony charity appeals, and fraudulent messages sent through email, text, or social media. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pushing victims to act quickly on “limited time” offers or false warnings about package deliveries and account issues.

Cyber experts say many schemes begin with something that appears harmless — like a small recurring charge, a misleading sale, or a fake retailer website — all designed to collect credit card information or personal data. They recommend using credit cards instead of debit cards for stronger fraud protection, keeping receipts, and double-checking online orders to make sure charges match what was purchased.

Officials also urge shoppers to research unfamiliar businesses and watch for complaint patterns or scam alerts. For those donating to charities this season, verifying organizations through trusted sources can help avoid fraudulent fundraising appeals.

With shopping, shipping, and online spending at their peak this weekend, Georgians are encouraged to slow down, check twice, and stay alert to protect their wallets and personal information.