The Better Business Bureau is urging shoppers to be vigilant on Cyber Monday, one of the biggest online shopping days of the year, for potential scams.
The Better Business Bureau warns consumers that fake websites, misleading ads, delivery scams and phony tracking updates are ways scammers could strike.
The Better Business Bureau tips for Cyber Monday include spotting fake websites and ads.
“Scammers mimic popular stores and promote deals that are too good to be true. Double-check web addresses, spelling, and contact information before you buy. Learn more about sponsored ad scams and look-a-like websites,” the BBB said in a statement.
The Better Business Bureau asks consumers to shop with trustworthy sellers on secure sites only.
“Be wary of businesses you aren’t familiar with. Check their BBB Business Profile on BBB.org, review the rating, and read customer reviews. In addition, be sure any web page you purchase from is secure. Secure web addresses begin with “HTTPS, “not just “HTTP.” Never put personal or credit card information in forms on non-secure web pages,” the BBB said.
Online consumers are also asked to use secure checkout methods and are suggested to pay with credit cards for protection and never pay with wire transfers or prepaid debit cards.
The BBB also warned consumer against fake “deals” and that retailers may be inflating sale prices as well as being aware of the “Buy Now, Pay Later Services” like Afterpay or Affirm (BBB Accredited Businesses) can spread out costs, but keep track of installments. The BBB noted that “missed payments may come with fees or affect your credit.”
The BBB warns consumers to protect their deliveries and to track shipments, consider secure locker pickups and “require signatures for high-value items to reduce the risk of porch piracy.”
Customers are reminded to understand return policies before buying. Stores may not allow returns on “final sale” or “closeout items.”
The BBB, also warns about phishing scams.
“Busy schedules and increased purchases make it easier to miss – and fall victim to – a phishing scam. Look out for unsolicited emails, texts, calls, or letters. These messages may claim you have a gift waiting for you or that there is a problem with delivery – all you need to do is click on a link or give up your personal information. Avoid phishing scams by ignoring suspicious correspondence and calls from unfamiliar phone numbers.”
Customers are also recommended to look for the Better Business Bureau seal so customers can “shop with confidence and peace of mind, avoid scams, and make smart purchase decisions on Cyber Monday and this holiday season by choosing businesses that prioritize trust and ethics in the marketplace.”
Consumers also can report and look up scams at the BBB website “before purchasing from a business you’ve never shopped at before or to warn others if you’ve been targeted by a scam.”