Tis’ the Season for Holiday Scams
The holidays are a happy time for food, family, and friendship, but they are also a time for fraud. Consumers can fall into any number of traps over the holidays and become victim to identity thieves, hackers and deceptive merchants online. With information on the five scams this season is Debbie Bridgeman, Communications Director for the BBB in Southeast Texas.
Scam shopping sites online
Look forthe BBB seal when shopping online and click on the seal to confirm it. Make sure it is legitimate. Investigate unfamiliar shopping websites. Check the business out with the BBB before you buy.
Finding the season’s hottest toys and gadgets online
Shop locally on Craigslist and conduct the transaction in person; NEVER wire money as payment. If you are purchasing items on auctions like eBay, research the seller extensively and listen to your doubts if the deal doesn’t sound legit.
Identity theft at the mall
Don’t let yourself get bogged down in purchases and lose track of your wallet; know where your credit and debit cards are at all times. Cover the keypad when entering your pin number while purchasing items or getting money from the ATM.
Bogus charitable pleas
Always research a charity with the BBB Wise Giving Alliance before you give to see if the charity meets the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.
Phishing e-mails
Don’t click on any links or open any attachments to e-mails until you have confirmed that they are not malicious. Beware of unsolicited e-mails from companies with which you have no association. Make sure you have current antivirus software.
For more advice on being a savvy consumer this holiday season, call (409)835-5348 or (855) BBB-SETX.