The holidays are filled with joy, decorations, gift shopping—and unfortunately, an uptick in criminal activity. Scammers, porch pirates, and opportunistic burglars all take advantage of the hustle and distraction of the season. Whether you're shopping online or hosting family gatherings, taking proactive steps to secure your home and digital footprint is essential.
At Ackerman Security, we want you to enjoy a worry-free holiday season. Below are updated tips and 2025 scam alerts to help you stay safe—both online and at home.
1. Watch Out for 2025 Holiday Scams
This year, scammers are using AI-generated phishing emails and fake mobile app offers to trick unsuspecting victims. Here's what to look out for:
New Scam Trends to Avoid:
- Fake order confirmations from Amazon or Walmart
- Scam "missed delivery" text messages from USPS, FedEx, or UPS
- Gift card scams urging you to send or receive digital gift cards via email
- AI chatbots pretending to be customer service agents asking for personal details
- QR code scams that direct you to fraudulent websites when scanned
Classic Red Flags:
- Suspicious email links or poor grammar
- Urgent language (e.g., "Act Now!" or "Your account is locked")
- Requests for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers
- Messages from "friends" asking for help or money unexpectedly
Tip: Never click on links from unknown sources. If in doubt, go directly to the company's official website or contact customer service.
2. Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
During the holidays, your data is more vulnerable than ever. Whether you're using public Wi-Fi while shopping or entering your credit card on multiple websites, it's vital to stay vigilant.
How to Safeguard Your Info:
- Use a VPN when shopping online
- Only purchase from HTTPS-secured websites
- Avoid saving credit card info in browsers or apps
- Monitor bank activity daily and freeze your credit if needed
- Set up 2-factor authentication for key accounts
Pro tip: Credit card skimmers are still in use—especially at gas stations and ATMs. Use tap-to-pay or trusted payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Wallet instead.
3. Stop Package Theft Before It Happens
Porch pirates know this is prime time for unattended deliveries. In fact, 1 in 3 Americans reports having a package stolen during the holiday season.
How to Reduce the Risk:
- Use tracking tools and delivery alerts
- Request packages be left in discreet locations (e.g., side doors, garages)
- Ask neighbors to retrieve packages if you're not home
- Install video doorbells and front porch cameras
- Use smart parcel lockers or Amazon Lockers when possible
Ackerman Security offers motion-activated outdoor surveillance and live alerts so you always know who's at your door.
4. Keep Gifts Hidden from View
Don't tempt burglars with visible valuables.
Holiday Display Tips:
- Keep presents away from street-facing windows
- Draw curtains in the evening
- Avoid displaying packaging from expensive items on the curb (e.g., TV or gaming console boxes)
- Break down boxes and dispose of them inside trash bags
5. Secure Your Home During Travel & Gatherings
Whether you're out shopping or visiting loved ones, your home may be left unattended. Criminals often target homes that appear empty.
Quick Security Tips Before Leaving:
- Double-check all door and window locks
- Use smart lighting with timers or app-controlled settings
- Leave on a TV or radio to create noise
- Arm your alarm system before you leave
- Avoid announcing travel plans on social media
With Ackerman Smart Home Automation, you can lock doors, control lights, and monitor cameras—all from your smartphone.
Bonus: Use Holiday Routines in Your Smart Home System
Set up holiday-specific automation routines like:
- Lights on at 5:30 PM to mimic someone arriving home
- Cameras switching to "away" mode during weekday work hours
- Notifications when kids arrive home from school or events
These automation features help create the appearance of activity and deter unwanted visitors.
Upgrade Your Peace of Mind This Holiday Season
Ackerman Security has been Atlanta's trusted name for over 50 years, providing 24/7 monitoring, advanced alarm systems, and next-gen smart home integrations.
Want to secure your home before the holidays? Call (800) 552-1111 or schedule a free consultation. We'll provide a FREE home security assessment and show you how to customize protection for your home and family.
