Cyber Monday deals are here. Here are tips for avoiding online scams

Cyber Monday shopping is underway and dozens of retailers are offering discounts and deals. However, there are a few things shoppers need to be wary of.

One of the biggest issues shoppers may come across is counterfeit items. They are everywhere as people surf for online deals.

Last year, the Better Business Bureau scam tracker reported more than 67,000 scams across the U.S.

These are the most common counterfeit products.

  • Shoes and clothes, including top brands like Nike and North Face
  • Gadgets are the third most common targets by scammers with Apple, Samsung and Sony the top brands they focus on
  • Handbags and jewelry
  • Toys like Legos and Pokemon

Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping online.

  • Be careful of low prices, especially if those items are usually offered at much higher prices.
  • It’s also important to read the website. Grammatical errors are a good indication that the site is fake.
  • Search for contact information, including a phone or email address and check to see if there is a brick-and-mortar address for the business.

You can also always check with the Better Business Bureau. You can go to its website to look up a company.

Report any scams here.


About the Author
Bruce Hamilton headshot

This Emmy Award-winning television, radio and newspaper journalist has anchored The Morning Show for 18 years.

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