Holiday Shopping Scams

(WOLO) COLUMBIA,S.C, — There are still shoppers who are planning to camp outside of major retailers in order to get their hands on that to good to be true deal offered on Black Friday, but experts say, 70 percent of shoppers plan to grab their holiday gift lists online. South Carolina Consumer Affairs Spokesperson, Carri Grube – Lybarker says you still have to protect yourself from those internet savvy scrooges who are out to make a quick buck of your hard earned money. ” Scams always increase this time of the year…technology makes it very convenient for us to go online, but it also makes it very easy convenient for scammers.” Some of the most dangerous online scams this year are bogus gift cards purchased online, Social media scams encouraging people to purchase items from pop up ads, and even mobile apps that can download malicious software onto your smartphone or android in order to get your information. Experts suggest: * Only do businesses with companies you know. * Stay clear of deals that appear too good to be true * Don’t give personal Information out over the phone or internet * Be wary of buying gift cards from third parties * Make sure you look for the “https” symbol and the lock icon on each site you visit to ensure it’s secure. * use a Credit Card instead of a Debit Card so you can re-coup lost funds faster.