Security and Risk Online: 12 Scams of Christmas you don’t want Security and Risk Online

Security and Risk Online: 12 Scams of Christmas
you don’t want from your true love
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Christmas is around the corner and the Better Business Bureau is warning
consumers to watch out for the 12 most common scams during the holiday season. One scam
will make you want to do your homework if you're shopping for a puppy this Christmas.
The BBB believes thieves are turning to the internet more often these days, because consumers
are doing just about everything online. People tend to be more giving these days and add in the
busy holiday schedules and you've got the perfect situation for a scammer to take advantage
of.
"People’s guard is down. They’ll give information. They’ll input things in the internet and not
think about where it’s going to go, who’s going to get it," explained Tim Maniscalo, President of
the BBB of Central Indiana.
Here are the BBB's 12 Scams of Christmas:
Malware E Cards: E-Cards are a fun way to send holiday greetings, but be careful as naughty
senders like to attach viruses along with them. Don’t click on emails from someone you don’t
know or a name you don’t recognize. When in doubt, delete it out.
Counterfeit Goods: Luxury goods at low prices are almost always cheap counterfeits. Handbags,
jewelry, watches, wallets, and electronic devices are among the top of the list of items
counterfeited. Always buy from reputable sellers, and check the web for signs of counterfeit
goods.
Look-A-Like Websites: It’s easy to recreate a website with a familiar logo, so beware when
you’re shopping online. Some red flags are the webpage is in http format, not the secure https,
no contact information, and even asking for payment by wire or money card. If you’re not sure
which site to trust, go to bbb.org and read online reviews first.
Unusual Forms of Payment: Be wary of anyone who asks you to pay for holiday purchases using
prepaid debit cards, gift cards, wire transfers, third parties, etc. These payments can’t be traced
and undone. Use a credit card on a secure website (https-the extra s is for secure), and the lock
symbol.
Santa Scammers: What better than a letter from Santa to light up your child’s face? Many
trusted companies offer charming and personalized letters from Santa, but scammers mimic