Google warning! Top 5 scams to watch out for this during Christmas holiday season (Pixabay)

As the holiday season is here, scammers and spammers may try to fool you with the aim of stealing your online account information and money. (Pixabay)

According to a blog post by Google, malicious actors accelerate their efforts during the holiday season as most people are so busy with friends and families that they do not pay attention to what may be happening and they end up losing money.  (Pixabay)

Here is a quick guide to the types of emails and the red flags to watch out for: From gift card scams, giveaways scams, crypto scams to subscription renewals scams, check them all out and stay safe. (Pixabay)

Gift cards and giveaways: Scammers may attempt to trick people into purchasing a gift card for them, sometimes using the guise of a known contact or dangle a free prize in exchange for sharing their credit card information. If you receive such mail don't open it and never reply. (Pixabay)

Charities: Whether it’s a supposed charity tied to a subject in the news, or an organization with a familiar name, be on the lookout for anyone asking you to contact them on their personal email or send money to them directly. (Pixabay)

Demographic targeting: Some scams are most specifically targeted to you and might seem more personal because they include some specific element of your life or identity. Keep your eyes open for identity-based malicious emails. (Pixabay)

Subscription renewals: As we approach the end of the year, subscription renewal scams can spike. Always be sure to check the sender’s email. If it looks off, it may be fraudulent. (Pixabay)

Crypto scams: A common variation of these scams uses a cryptocurrency wallet to collect payment and often attempts to extort funds from a victim through a threat. Some big red flags include typos, email addresses that seem off, or demands for payment.

Here are three golden rules to avoid becoming a victim of a holiday scam: (Pixabay)

Slow it down: Scams are often designed to create a sense of urgency. Take time to ask questions and think it through. (Pixabay)

Spot check: Do your research to double check the details you are getting. Does what they’re telling you make sense? (Pixabay)

Stop! Don’t send: No reputable person or agency will ever demand payment or your personal information on the spot. (Pixabay)