VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) - It happens every year, scams that target folks in the most unsuspecting ways. The
Better Business Bureau has come out with its top 10 list and ways to be safe this holiday season.
Everyone likes getting an ecard during the holidays, but be careful because it could be a virus. The same goes if your bank sends you anything via email, it won't happen because no financial institution gets in touch with its customers like that.
Mark Fernandes with the BBB says if you don't recognize the sender, delete it. He adds you should also take precautions when giving to charity.
"There are people showing up to your door soliciting; asking for cash payments. You want to be able to check as much information as you can about the charity."
When buying Christmas presents online, pay with your credit card, be on a reputable website and always read the fine print. And when buying gift cards, ask for the ones behind the till, just in case someone has tampered with the ones in front.
Tips to avoid being scammed
1. Think twice before clicking a link sent to you via email
2. Make sure to check out the businesses privacy policy before giving out personal information
3. Online businesses are required by law to send you your product within 30 days unless otherwise stated or you do get your money back
4. Pay with a credit card, instead of cash or bank card: If it's a scam you'll have record of it and are more likely to get your money back
5. Con artists can get important numbers off of the gift cards before you have even bought; ask for the ones behind the counter
6. Remove your purchases from your car or make sure they are out of sight
7. The sneakiest Scrooges will often adopt a similar name to known charities, so make sure you do your research
8. Make a list of what you want to spend and keep track of how much you are spending.
9. Layaway is an excellent option when paying for something pricier make sure to find out all the details
10. When shopping online there are hundreds of website offering to beat out the next website with their own deals