The crooks will be out on Cyber Monday “Full Force”, says BBB. These 4 tips can help you – NBC Chicago
Cyber Monday, the biggest online shopping day of the year, is here. And while shoppers are hoping to land deals online on big-ticket items like Apple electronics and smart TVs, scammers are also hoping to take advantage.
“Scammers will be out in force with all sorts of sneaky ways to get your attention and get your money,” says Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau. “Beware of misleading advertisements, similar websites and unreliable sellers.”
Retail experts say shoppers this year on Black Friday broke an online sales record, topping $9 billion for the first time ever. Cyber Monday consumers are expected to spend even more, and this trend is expected to continue into the holiday season.
“The consumer can expect to see a fairly competitive pricing landscape over the next few weeks as we head into the timelines to get it before the holidays,” said Nick Kaplan, chief growth and development officer. innovation of the Saadia group.
Unfortunately, as holiday specials and online shopping continue, more opportunities for fraudulent activity may arise, notes the BBB.
“That means the scammers are working overtime,” Bernas said.
If you’re searching the internet for vacation deals this holiday season, the BBB recommends keeping these tips in mind:
- Beware of Fake 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,” says the BBB. “Keep an eye out for fake websites by checking the web address, looking for correct spelling, legitimate contact information, and secure web addresses that begin with “HTTPS” “Scammers love to create similar websites that, at first glance, appear to be from a trusted retailer” , says the BBB.
- Check the price before you buy. Using comparison sites like Google Shopping or Camel Camel Camel will help you compare prices. “Remember that the ‘best deal’ may not be the real deal,” says the BBB.
- Pay with a credit card. According to the BBB, credit cards offer better consumer and purchase protection than debit cards. “If any shady charges appear later, you can dispute them through your credit card company,” the BBB said. “Debit cards don’t offer the same protection. Never make purchases from online sellers by giving them prepaid debit cards or wire money to them.”
- Read the fine print. Make sure you are aware of Cyber Monday specific return policies as they may be more restrictive. “Be aware that stores may not allow returns for ‘final sale’ or ‘clearance’ items. Be sure to get gift receipts, so the recipient can return or exchange the item if necessary. “
Additional tips and tricks are available at BBB.org.
NBC Chicago
