Better Business Bureau warns PA shoppers of Halloween shopping scams
The BBB said common Halloween scams include fake online stores, fraudulent event tickets, and bait-and-switch schemes. (FILE)
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHP) —Before buying that last-minute Halloween costume or decoration, the Better Business Bureau is warning shoppers to watch out for fake websites, misleading deals, and businesses that may disappear after the holiday.
The BBB said common Halloween scams include fake online stores, fraudulent event tickets, and bait-and-switch schemes. That’s when shoppers receive something completely different from what they ordered.
Ida Vaghari, a director with the Better Business Bureau serving Washington, D.C., and eastern Pennsylvania, said shoppers should take a few minutes to research a business before spending money.
“Ultimately, a few extra minutes of research can save you a lot of money and a lot of frustration,” Vaghari said.
One example is ordering a costume advertised with several accessories, only to find that some pieces are missing or the quality is nothing like the pictures.
Seasonal Halloween stores can also create challenges. Some are only open for a few weeks, making it harder for customers to return items or get help after the holiday.
Vaghari recommends checking a store’s contact information and asking about its refund and return policies before making a purchase.
Online shoppers should also be careful with unfamiliar links in social media ads, emails, and text messages.
“You want to go to the company’s website yourself,” Vaghari said.
Five ways to avoid Halloween scams
- Research the business – Check BBB.org for complaints and reviews before buying.
- Avoid suspicious links – Don’t click unfamiliar ads, emails, or text messages. Go directly to the retailer’s website.
- Check return policies – Find out whether you can return an item and how long the business will remain open.
- Verify contact information – Make sure the company has a working phone number, email address, or physical address.
- Use a credit card – Credit cards generally offer stronger protections if you need to dispute a fraudulent charge.
If you’ve already paid for something and believe you’ve been scammed, Vaghari recommends contacting your credit card company to dispute the charge.
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