By Mechele Agbayani Mills

High inflation rates, price increases, and limited supplies could induce some additional stress this holiday shopping season. This creates an environment which makes us prime targets for dishonest dealers who know shoppers are on the hunt for the right gift and a good bargain. BBB reminds consumers to take the time to make educated decisions before making a purchase, particularly when shopping online.

Product shortages and increased online shopping will likely result in more online purchase scams this year. These scams accounted for nearly a third of all scams reported to BBB Scam Tracker in 2022, according to the 2022 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report. Shortages are likely to make purchase scams even more common as desperate shoppers turn to shady websites in hopes of finding this year’s must-have gift.

BBB recommends the following tips to “Shop Safe, Shop Smart” this holiday season:

1. Never rush to make a purchasing decision. When shopping online, be sure to take your time. Be especially cautious about email solicitations and online ads on social media sites.
2. Read the fine print. Offers on websites and in unsolicited emails may offer free or very low prices on hard-to-find items. There may be hidden costs or your purchase may sign you up for a monthly charge. Review the return policy. While many online orders can be returned for a full refund, others have restocking fees. Some items cannot be returned; know before you buy.
3. Only make purchases from reputable stores and websites. Many consumers have reported receiving fake or watered-down products when purchasing from “discount” vendors. The safest way to avoid getting scammed when purchasing toys is to buy them directly from a seller you know and trust.
4. Don’t be fooled by extra-low prices. Unreasonably low prices are a red flag for a scam on many products. Avoid making a purchase from a retailer you aren’t familiar with just because the price sounds too good to be true.
5. Protect personal information. Read a site’s privacy policy and understand what personal information is being requested and how it will be used. If a site doesn’t have a privacy policy, that’s a big red flag that it may be a scam.
6. Keep documentation of your order. Save a copy of the confirmation page or email confirmation until you receive the item and are satisfied. Be sure to know and understand the return policy and keep this documented with your purchase records.
7. Reconcile your financial statements. Match up your receipts with your financial statements to make sure they match up.
   
   Count on BBB to help you “Shop Safe, Shop Smart.” More tips are available at BBB.org/holiday.

“Many shoppers are planning to start early this year.  It’s a good idea to be on the lookout for dishonest individuals and companies well before Black Friday sales begin.”

Mechele Agbayani Mills is President and CEO of BBB Central East Texas.