First Reliance Bank has warned customers about fraudulent gift card and wire-transfer payment demands during the holiday shopping period. Its November 13, 2025 guidance links the risks with fake online stores, misleading travel offers, fraudulent donation pages and messages impersonating relatives or trusted organizations.

The bank identifies urgency as a recurring warning sign. Scammers may claim an emergency or offer a holiday deal while pressuring the recipient to pay by gift card or wire transfer. Phishing messages can also imitate shipping updates and ask for login or payment information.

Other scenarios include identity theft, counterfeit checks, romance scams and people posing as a bank, employer or friend. First Reliance recommends verifying an unexpected request through a trusted contact method before sharing information or sending funds.

Its suggested precautions include reviewing account activity, setting alerts, using unique passwords and two-factor authentication, and avoiding unfamiliar links or attachments. The guidance also advises checking businesses and charities before paying and limiting publicly shared information about travel and purchases.

Customers who suspect fraud are told to contact First Reliance promptly, change affected passwords and retain relevant messages and transaction records. The bank also points victims of identity theft toward the Federal Trade Commission and describes fraud alerts or credit freezes as further options.

First Reliance says its account alerts, digital banking tools, fraud team and Fraud & Security Center support customers in identifying and reporting suspicious activity. The article presents those services alongside the holiday warning.