Better Business Bureau warns shoppers about cyber scams

Experts say shoppers should be mindful of scams when shopping online.

Angelica Toruno

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Dec 2, 2024, 10:11 PM

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Updated 2 hr ago

The Better Business Bureau is warning shoppers about cyber scams this Cyber Monday.

U.S. shoppers already spent $10.3 billion online on Black Friday, that's 10.2% more than last year, according to Adobe Analytics.

As carts fill up and people check out, shopping online comes with risks.

"This year, 87% of people who reported being targeted by an online shopping scam lost money. Now, it's not a lot of money, it's less than $100 per scam, but that number really adds up," said Kristen Johnson, director of communications at the Better Business Bureau serving Connecticut.

According to the National Retail Federation, shoppers are expected to spend in-store and online 2.5% to 3.5% more than 2023.

The BBB has pro tips for a successful cyber shopping experience.

Beware of false advertising and phony websites. If a company sells the hottest item of the year at a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers love to create lookalike websites that, at first glance, appear to belong to a trusted retailer. Ensure that your site has the correct business name spelling, legitimate contact information and working customer service numbers.
Use your credit card. If shady charges appear later, you can contest them through your credit card company. Debit cards usually don't offer this same protection.
Understand return policies. Online store policies may change for Cyber Monday offers. Read the fine print before you buy. Be aware that stores may not allow returns for "final sale" or "closeout" items.
Watch out for 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.
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. 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.
Take advantage of rewards and loyalty programs. Check your credit card rewards program for special point offers that could add up on Cyber Monday and throughout the holidays. Make purchases using loyalty programs; many major retailers offer them.

"Simply do an internet search with the name of the business and the word scam. Make sure they have contact information, make sure they have a real address, look up that address, make sure it's not an abandoned building or an empty parking lot," said Johnson.

Look up a company here. If you suspect a scam or have been a victim of a scam you can report it here.