CHARLESTON, WV (WVDN) — West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey reminds consumers to use caution, shop wisely and protect their personal information as the holiday shopping season accelerates with Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
“Whether you’re shopping online or at brick-and-mortar stores, be aware that the holiday season brings with it seasonal scams,” Attorney General Morrisey said. “Scammers take advantage of busy shoppers and increased consumer activity during the holidays. Every transaction offers scammers the opportunity to rip off your identity or hard-earned money.”
“Be vigilant with your personal information so that it doesn’t end up in the hands of scammers,” Attorney General Morrisey said.
Attorney General Morrisey encourages consumers to limit their use of debit cards and be aware of fraudulent websites or coupons that resemble the real thing.
Whether shopping online or in stores, credit cards provide the best protection to dispute charges when goods or services do not arrive as promised. Contrasted with debit cards, which are no different than cash and provide no special protection.
Online shoppers should watch for spelling mistakes, low-quality images and ensure URL addresses legitimately match the known retailer’s website. These tips will help consumers identify fraudulent websites or illegitimate coupon offers hastily created to steal money and personal information.
Consumers should rely upon secure payment systems, avoid money transfers to unknown people and make sure any payment website starts with “https://” as the “s” indicates a secure page.
In-store shoppers should leave Social Security cards and other non-essential information at home, lock presents away in the trunk, watch for skimming devices and use an RFID blocking sleeve or wallet to protect credit/debit cards from electronic pickpockets.
Anyone who suspects they may have been scammed while shopping should call the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 800-368-8808 or visit the office online at www.ago.wv.gov.
