From time to time, we like to bring attention to the latest scams happening in our community, and really, all around the country.
According to Adobe, online holiday shopping could total $189 billion by December 31st. Unfortunately, scammers may grab millions before all is said and done. A favorite target this season: Sony PlayStation 5 and puppies. But stay alert no matter what you’re purchasing.
Four Tips for Safer Shopping:
- Never pay with a prepaid gift card, a cash app or Venmo, or wire someone money. Paying with a credit card offers some consumer protections.
- Never click a link from a Facebook or Instagram ad or a link in an email. Go directly to the company’s website. Do a Google search with the company name and add the word “reviews” or “complaints.”
- What is their return policy? If this is unusually difficult to find, there may be a reason.
- If you are buying an item from a person, meet in the parking lot or lobby of your local police station. Almost every police station has an area marked in their parking lot for these transactions – as well as security cameras!
We can’t say it enough. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. After the year we’ve had, we all deserve to enjoy the holidays. Please stay alert to scammers and share this article with your friends and family. Happy Holiday Shopping!
