COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The holidays are here and while you've been busy with or distracted by all the preparations and celebrations, scammers and identity thieves have been looking for ways to get their hands on your cash and personal information.
As a gift to you, the Better Business Bureau compiled a list of the top 12 scams of the holiday season; the ones most likely to catch consumers off guard.
Better Call 4 is counting them down, like the 12 Days of Christmas:
12. Puppy scams
This tactic is very common this time of year. Many would-be pet owners turn to the internet to find their future furry friend, but those listings could be fake. It's something Better Call 4 has warned you of before. Always ask to see the pet in person before making a purchase.
11. Top holiday wishlist items
Low-priced, name-brand goods for sale on online marketplaces are almost always knockoffs. Be sure you know just what you're getting before you buy.
10. Advent calendars
In years past, consumers complained to the BBB's Scam Tracker about advent calendar ads on social media not delivering as promised. Always research before you buy.
9. Fake shipping notifications
Better Call 4 told you earlier this month about phony delivery emails or text messages, as more people make online purchases during the holidays, leading to an increase in shipments. Scammers use this shipping surge to "phish" for your private information.
"Don't click on links that are sent to you through emails or text messages," BBB of Central Ohio President Judy Dollison said.
8. Fake charities
The last few weeks of the year are a busy time for generous donations. So, look out for fraudulent organizations and scammers pretending to be people in need.
7. Imposter scams
That's a familiar term if you're a regular Better Call 4 viewer. These scams can take many forms, in which scammers imitate established businesses or government agencies.
"Medicare is not sitting down and making a hundred million phone calls," said Ryan Lippe, consumer educator for the Ohio Attorney General's Office. "They are not doing that, but scammers are."
When in doubt, look up the business or agency's website or phone number yourself. Never rely on information sent or given to you.
Better Call 4 will share the rest of the list this Thursday at 5:45 p.m.
