CRIME, POLICE + COURTS

Be on the lookout for these holiday scams, Better Business Bureau says

Dec 19, 2024, 1:00 PM

A hand holds a red credit card next to a silver laptop with black keys....

A hand holds a credit card next to a silver laptop. (Canva)

(Canva)

SALT LAKE CITY — As people rush to get last-minute holiday shopping done, the Better Business Bureau warns that scams are everywhere.

The BBB said scammers are looking for any way to get your money or steal your personal information. 

Holiday shopping scams

If you find some really low-priced electronics or designer clothing for your holiday shopping, there’s a chance they are counterfeit. 

The BBB said to be wary of purchasing popular toys from resellers like Facebook Marketplace, many times scammers want the money upfront but you never receive the merchandise. The same goes for puppies and kittens on social media. 

Scammers are taking advantage of the fact that so many people shop online. The BBB said to watch out for fake shipping notifications.

Scams are everywhere

The BBB said many apps where kids can watch live reindeer or chat with Santa can contain malware, so be careful.

Scammers are also targeting people who are inspired by the season of giving. Fake charities are all over the place right now. BBB officials said to go to Give.org to verify if a charity is legit before giving them money.

Lastly, if you’re looking to make a little extra money during the holidays, the BBB advised caution. It warned not to fall for jobs that sound too good to be true.

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Be on the lookout for these holiday scams, Better Business Bureau says