BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) – As we get closer to Christmas, the Better Business Bureau said the urgency to be fully prepared can be stressful. It is warning to be careful, so you don’t get taken advantage of in the process.
Sometimes with those last-minute preps for the holidays, you might be searching for a good deal, but the BBB wants to help you protect your money and identity in the process.
Carl Bates from the BBB of Central and South Alabama said so far, it has seen many fake shipping text messages with links. Bates said no one should believe those or click on them. He said the major shippers do not communicate by text message.
The BBB has received these reported issues this holiday:
- Fake shipping text messages
- Fake delivery drivers
- Compromised gift cards: check for stickers and opened packaging
Bates said to watch out for social media scams when you’re looking for a good last-minute deal.
The BBB's advice for checking gift social media scams:
- Are you familiar with the merchant?
- Do they have an actual website?
- Verify offering before placing order
- Check merchant on bbb.org for reviews/complaints
- Use credit card for purchase
- Check for return or refund policy and contact information