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MO Attorney General offers tips to avoid holiday scams

Don't get scammed this holiday season!
Scam or Scams Online on the Internet as Concept

If you are looking to snag some deals this holiday season, Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley has a few tips to avoid getting scammed.

1. Bring a copy of the deal

The best way to ensure you are getting the advertised price is to bring a copy of the ad with you when you shop in the store.

2. Research merchants before you shop

Did you see a deal from a store you aren't familiar with? The best way to ensure you are working with a business that is on the up-and-up is to research their history. You can check for complaints against a business by using the Know Mo database.

3. Understand the exchange policy

If you do get a product that you would need to return, make sure you understand the return policies. Always keep your receipts and purchase documentation. Shoppers should read the fine print of holiday deals because they can have limited exchange windows.

4. Be aware of sales advertised only for certain days or times

5. Watch for bait-and-switch

Some stores may try to draw shoppers in with a great deal then push them toward more expensive items. Insist sellers honor their advertised deals.

6. Use your credit card

If your debit card information is stolen, the thief is spending money directly from your account. With a credit card, a thief can only spend a specific amount that has to be approved. It is also easier to cancel charges from a credit card.

7. Beware of emails pretending to be from businesses

Don't click links or open attachments from emails until you confirm the emails are not malicious. Links and attachments can infect your computer with viruses. Some giveaways are typos in the email an email address that doesn't match up with other emails from the company.

8. Beware of text messages offering gift cards

The text will often have a link to a website that looks like the company's website but is trying to steal users' information.

For more tips and resources, see this press release on the Missouri AG website.

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