With Christmas fast approaching, Better Business Bureau has compiled its annual top 12 scams of Christmas based on consumer reports submitted to BBB Scam Tracker. In December 2021, North American consumers reported over 3,200 scams to BBB, resulting in $4.5 million lost to fraudulent and unethical businesses. While con artists’ tactics are constantly shifting and evolving, holiday shoppers can avoid most of the scams on this list by taking a few simple precautions.
Social media continues to be a favored platform for scammers to carry out their schemes, and BBB recommends always exercising caution with social media ads promoting discounted items, holiday events, job opportunities and donation requests, as well as direct messages from strangers. If requested to make a payment or donation by wire transfer, through a third party, gift card or prepaid debit card, exercise care, as these are red flags of a potential scam.
BBB’s 12 Scams of Christmas
1. Misleading social media ads: It is common for consumers to see advertisements from well-known businesses and individual sellers on their social media feeds. Whether the ad appears to be from a well-known company or not, it is important to research the offer or product before you buy. BBB receives reports daily of consumers paying for items they never receive, being charged monthly for a service they…
