Friday, December 15, 2017
As the song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” Unfortunately that’s true for crooks too, because the holidays provide seasonal avenues for them separate you from your money and belongings. This year we’ve partnered with a number of agencies and organizations, including AARP North Carolina, to help you avoid trouble and preserve your holiday cheer while you shop over the holidays.For example, gift cards are convenient but they can also be vulnerable to several types of scams. For best results, walk past the rack and ask the clerk for a card that scammers haven’t been able to freely examine. Online, be on the lookout for websites that claim to have this year’s hottest toy in stock at a good price. Too many of them are fakes that deliver nothing but disappointment. And if you are online via public Wi-Fi, don’t share your credit card information or make purchases until you’re on a secure network.These and other tips are explained in greater detail on our “Don’t Get Taken in the Season of Giving” website, where you’ll also find helpful links to information from our partners.If you think you’ve been victimized by any scam, file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.