Fighting Fraud
By Better Business Bureau® Serving Greater Cleveland
Many Northeast Ohio consumers are getting their shopping lists ready and checking them twice for the retail madness leading up to Christmas. Scammers are getting ready, too.
The National Retail Federation (NRF) predicts “healthy holiday sales” to exceed 2021 totals. NRF reports that average holiday retail sales have increased by approximately 4.9% over the past 10 years, with online pandemic spending accounting for recent large gains. BBB warns shoppers that, while online shopping is convenient, it is also a favorite hideout for scammers. To prevent yourself from becoming a victim of a scam, BBB Serving Greater Cleveland (BBB) has the following tips:
Beware of false advertising and phony websites. If a company is selling the hottest item of the year at a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Watch out for false advertising and keep a close eye on the web address in your browser. Scammers love to create lookalike websites that, at first glance, appear to belong to a trusted retailer. Make sure websites use the correct spelling of a business name and have legitimate contact information and customer service numbers.
Keep your antivirus software up to date. Make sure you have antivirus software installed on your computer or mobile device and that it is up to date. This will help you avoid non-secure websites and pop-up phishing scams and help keep your personal information safe.
Use your credit card. It’s always best to make online purchases with your credit card. If any shady charges turn up later, you can contest them through your credit card company. Debit cards don’t offer this same protection. Never make purchases with online sellers by giving them prepaid debit cards or wiring money. BBB also recommends you not save your credit card info on the site.
Understand return policies. Online store policies may change for Cyber Monday offers. Read the fine print before you buy. Understand the return or exchange policy for the specific item you purchase. Be aware that stores may not allow returns for “final sale” or “closeout” items. Make sure to get gift receipts so the recipient can return or exchange the item if necessary.
For more advice on staying safe online this holiday season, go to BBB.org/holiday. You can check out businesses, file a complaint, and submit and read customer reviews at bbb.org. Questions? Reach out to your BBB at 216-241-7678 or [email protected].
