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According to Audri Lanford, Co-director of Scambusters.org, "Consumers are less likely to be careful" during the holidays.

By Tamara E. Holmes

I know you are smarter than that but for those family members and friends of yours who may be tempted to throw caution to the wind, share these tips with them:

Gift Cards

How it works:  A con artist buys a gift card, spends the balance, then sells the card online.  When the recipient goes to cash in, the card has no value.

Avoid being a victim:  Your best bet is to purchase gift cards directly from a retailer that you know and trust. Do not buy gift cards from online sellers that are not major retailers that you know and trust.

Holiday E-Greeting Card

How it works:  A well-meaning friend or co-worker e-mails you a greeting card attachment.  Opening it downloads software onto your computer that hacks your files and makes your personal information vulnerable.

Avoid being a victim:  Update your anti-virus and anti-spyware software.  Instead of clicking on links or attachments, type the Web address of the greeting card site in a new browser window and enter your e-mail address to view your card.  This tip by Brian Trombley, product manager with McAfee.

Charities

How it works:  A letter asks you to make a donation for Christmas gifts for needy children on for food purchases for homeless families but the imposter steals the money.

Avoid being a victim:  Always request written information about the charity first.  If you feel uneasy about a donation request, visit watchdog sites such as the Better Busienss Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance (give.org)

Spam Solicitation

How it works:  An e-mail contains an offer to sell, at a low price, the video game your niece has been beggin for.  You send money but never receive the game.

Avoid being a victim:  Never respond to unsolicited email - of any kind.  Be leary of anyone who tries to sell merchandise via e-mail.  If your email system says it's spam, that means it's a scam.