As the holiday season drives an increase in shopping and charitable donations, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger has issued a warning about persistent and evolving scams targeting residents. According to recent data from the Senior Protection from Exploitation Against Retirees (SPEAR) Act, reports of suspected financial fraud continue to rise during this period.
“Scammers don’t take holidays,” said Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. “We’re working overtime to protect Georgians during the holidays, and our office is laser-focused on identifying and stopping the scammers.”
The SPEAR Act requires investment firms in Georgia to report cases of attempted senior exploitation. Since its implementation, there have been 1,140 reported cases, with 81 victims identified in November 2025 alone.
Gift card fraud remains a common threat this season. In one case cited by officials, a scammer gained access to a Georgia charity’s email system and impersonated the Executive Director. The criminal instructed a staff member to buy thousands of dollars’ worth of gift cards using the organization’s credit card on two occasions before a cashier questioned the purchase and revealed the scam.
Other prevalent schemes include “relative in distress” scams where criminals pose as family members needing urgent financial help via text or social media. Document fraud—such as fake IDs or doctored bank statements—and unauthorized credit checks are also being reported.
Online shoppers face risks like non-delivery scams, where payment is made for goods that never arrive. Another trend involves card-decline scams: shoppers are told their card was declined even though it was charged; when they provide another card, both are billed.
“Before you donate, do your research,” said Raffensperger. “Visit our website, Charity Navigator, or even ask a friend for their opinion. A second set of eyes can help avoid years of stress and regret. Don’t let yourself become the next victim.”
