HARTFORD, Conn. — While the thrill of shopping for a loved one is unmatched, the pain of being swindled by a scammer is equally as disappointing.
To avoid online shopping scams this holiday season, the Connecticut Department of Banking and state Department of Consumer Protection are teaming up to remind consumers to be on guard when making payments on the internet.
Connecticut Banking Commissioner Jorge Perez points out in a release that shopping online is a convenient way to purchase holiday gifts. He said that the online method of shopping provides endless options beyond what can be found in stores.
“Before providing your credit card information, however, it is vital that you take steps to ensure your information is protected,” Perez said. “Research any online company that you are not familiar with, beware of deals that seem too good to be true and always ensure your phone or device are properly secure.”
DCP Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli said that online shopping has become the go-to method for holiday shoppers, but there are risks involved.
“Unfortunately, it is also a common time for scammers to trick shoppers as they browse online,” Cafferelli said. “We want to remind consumers to take their time, do your research on any unfamiliar websites and don’t click on pop-up adds offering a good deal.”
Cafferelli said if it is too good to be true, it probably is.
Perez added that taking just a few steps can help make holiday shopping a bit less stressful and make the holiday season a little brighter.
Both departments offered advice on how to avoid fraud and shopping scams this holiday season.
First, beware of deals that are too good to be true. Before making a purchase, type the company’s name into a search engine with terms such as “review,” “complaint,” or “scam.” Stick to reputable sites and be on guard if a great deal is available on one site for an item that isn’t available anywhere else.
Second, avoid phishing emails or text messages. Don’t immediately click on direct links from unsolicited emails or text messages. Text from strange phone numbers and emails from unknown addresses are likely signs of scams.
Third, don’t make purchases through social media adds as many are “look alike” sites impersonating legitimate ones. Use a separate, secure browser and find that reputed retailer’s actual website.
Fourth, check the URL to make sure the website uses encryption to protect your information during a transaction. Look for https at the beginning of a URL; the ‘s’ after http means the site is encrypted.
Fifth, use a credit card for online purchases, as under federal law, one can dispute unauthorized charges to their credit card in writing. Individuals are responsible for unauthorized charges of up to $50.
Sixth, check your credit card and bank statements. Contact your financial institution immediately if you discover charges that you did not make.
Seventh, review the return policy before making any purchases. Also, check the item’s available availability and total cost before placing an order.
Lastly, keep records such as your order confirmation, receipt, tracking number and all email, texts or other communications you have with the company.
Both Connecticut departments added several ways to make sure your device is secure. One should keep software up to date and install all software updates, especially security patches protecting your device from malware.
One should additionally use strong passwords and a multi-factor authentication, which gives another layer of security. Avoiding the use of public networks or free Wi-Fi for online purchases is also recommended.
The Department of Banking’s Consumer Affairs Division can be contacted for questions pertaining to financial scams or fraud at 860-240-8170 or banking.complaints@ct.gov or file online here.
Individuals who believe they have fallen victim to a scam, purchased a product that was misrepresented or have engaged in business with someone who didn’t fulfill their contract can file a complaint with the Department of Consumer Protection by emailing dcp.complaints@ct.gov or filing online here.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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