Fraudsters are taking full advantage of the holiday rush, targeting online shoppers and crypto users with increasingly sophisticated scams.
Lionsgate Network, a blockchain intelligence and crypto recovery firm, has reported a surge in fraud during this period, noting that criminals are moving faster and exploiting human behaviour more cleverly than ever.
The company has released its “12 Scams of Christmas,” a checklist highlighting the most common threats between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
Source: Lionsgate Network
Criminals are no longer relying on obvious errors or poorly designed websites.
Instead, they mimic real profiles, trusted brands, and customer support agents with striking accuracy.
Many attacks unfold so quickly that victims often do not notice anything unusual until their assets are gone.
Bezalel Eithan Raviv, CEO of Lionsgate Network, said:
“People are often surprised by how sophisticated and fast these scams have become. Prevention will always be the strongest safeguard, but when someone becomes a victim, time is critical. In crypto-related fraud, assets can move across multiple networks almost instantly. Acting quickly gives victims the best chance at recovering what was stolen.”
Most attacks begin on major social platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, where criminals exploit personal trust and emotional responses.
Friendly introductions, fake communities, and urgent messages are used to manipulate users into unsafe interactions.
Analysts note that scammers are targeting human vulnerability rather than technological gaps, relying on distraction, curiosity, and emotional triggers to extract funds.
Common warning signs include unexpected account alerts, suspicious giveaways, surprise shipping notifications, and requests to transfer funds to so-called “safe wallets.”
Even small inconsistencies, such as unusual grammar, subtle URL differences, or sudden pressure for rapid action, can indicate an attempt to deceive.
Raviv emphasised:
“It's the end-of-the-year pressure where scammers use this as a weapon. Donate fast, invest fast, and trust fast. Don't do that.”
The “12 Scams of Christmas” checklist also highlights fraudulent investment pitches, fake wallet apps, limited-time NFT offers, and fake charity pages designed to drain wallets.
Security experts recommend verifying websites, avoiding unsolicited links, checking app developers’ credentials, and using a VPN on public Wi-Fi.
Fraud during the holiday season does not just target older users.
According to Lionsgate Network, one out of three people aged 25 to 30 will be targeted, and one in two of those targets may fall victim.
Crypto scams are particularly prominent, where unsuspecting individuals purchase illegitimate tokens and digital assets.
Raviv warned:
“Be aware that over 50% of everything they'll see online is probably a scam during that time of year. If it is too good to be true, it probably is.”
Lionsgate Network’s approach to fraud recovery involves three steps: using blockchain analysis to track stolen funds, gathering cyber forensic evidence to assist with exchange freezes, and coordinating with law enforcement until recovery is complete.
The firm has worked with agencies such as the FBI and DHS, helping recover millions in stolen cryptocurrency through real-time tracing and direct action.
Raviv added practical advice for avoiding scams:
“If you are offered a coupon or gift card at a very surprising price, that should be a red flag.”
That being said, if a vendor pressures you for immediate payment, consider it a scam warning.
Serious businesses never use such aggressive, direct solicitation.
Experts emphasise that patience, skepticism, and careful attention remain the most reliable safeguards.
Consumers are urged to verify the legitimacy of messages, emails, and calls, and even consider calling back if a call seems suspicious.
Raviv explained,
“They don’t wait and sit for you to join the party. They basically trigger an emotional factor, and that's where people are most around the holiday times.”
Lionsgate Network’s warnings reflect a holiday season where fraud is evolving faster than ever, demanding heightened vigilance from anyone engaging in online or crypto transactions.
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