The Better Business Bureau is warning of a significant increase in online purchase scams.
They say they’ve tracked a 125% increase in these scams over the past year.
They typically involve scammers using fake ads offering major discounts on hard-to-find items.
As we head into a busy time of online shopping, the BBB is reminding you to do your research before you click “buy.”
And always follow the rule of thumb: If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
“Scammers are trying to cast a wider net, so they’re king of putting out a blanket scam latching on to that viral item or a name brand item, using that website trying to lure in whoever is going to fall for it,” said Katie Grevious, Marketing & Community Relations Manager with the BBB of West Michigan.
The BBB says it’s also a good idea to use credit cards for online purchases because you’re less likely to lose out on money if you get scammed.