Online Fraud Detection on How and why people commit efraud Online Security Straight Talk: Be careful while sh

Online Security Straight Talk: Be careful while shopping over
the holidays

The Canton Regional and Greater West Virginia Better Business Bureau offers tips and advice
for consumers to avoid fraudulent practices.
The concern: It's the most wonderful time of the year, but your Better Business Bureau is
reminding consumers that scammers don't take a break for the holidays. In fact, the holiday
season is ideal for them while shoppers are too distracted to notice the warning signs of a
potential scam.
Common holiday scams and tips to avoid:
1. Online shopping scams: Everyone loves a great deal, but some websites offer prices that are
too good to be true. BBB advice: When shopping online, if you’re on sites you’re not familiar
with, watch for look-alike websites with URLs that use the names of well-known brands along
with extra words. Confirm the company has a physical address and telephone number. Any
pages where you enter personal or financial information should have https:// at the beginning
of the address or URL. Check out the websites BBB Business Reviews at www.bbb.org or call
800-362-0494.
2. Online ads for hot toys and gadgets: When stores sell out, you may find the items online at
sites like Craigslist or eBay, but for a much steeper price. Some sellers will take your money and
run. BBB Advice: If you shop on Craigslist or other classified sites, look for local sellers and
conduct transactions in person. Never wire money as payment. If you’re shopping on auctions
like eBay, research sellers extensively and don’t buy if the deal sounds too good to be true.
3. Identity theft at stores: While you’re focused on getting those deals, identity thieves are
watching for opportunities to steal your wallet or your debit or credit card numbers. BBB
Advice: Stay alert. Know where your credit and debit cards are at all times and cover the keypad
when entering your pin number. If the merchant can process cards using an embedded chip,
use that rather than swiping the magnetic strip. Make sure you put your card back in your
wallet after each purchase.
4. Phony charitable pleas: The holidays are a time of giving, and that creates an opportunity for
scammers to solicit their own donations with fake charity solicitations in email, on social media
sites, and even by text. BBB Advice: Always research charities at BBB’s give.org before donating.