Minyanville is a neat site that offers stock market and investment tips. These 6 tips are excellent in avoiding scam artists that try to take advantage of this business season.

Holiday Safety Tips - Don't Fall Prey to Holiday Scams
http://www.minyanville.com/articles/index/a/14897

QUOTE: The holidays bring good cheer, mistletoe – and scam artists. Holiday scammers play on your trusting nature, desire for a bargain and “urgent need” to update your financial information in their continuing quest to separate you from your money.  Keep an eye out for these holiday scams:

1. Avoid E-Card greetings
2. Phony Sign-Up Tables at the mall or other public places offering charge cards
3. Emails requesting "Account information needed" 
4. Emails, phone calls, or regular mail claiming "You are the winner"
5. Emails or regular mail claiming that "You are approved for credit cards"
6. Other telemarketing scams

SUMMARY: Just remember what your mother taught you: If it’s too good to be true, it’s a scam. Keep that in mind and no crook will spoil your holiday.