BBB Warns Of Shortages, Scammers When It Comes To Holiday Shopping

The Better Business Bureau warns that national supply chain shortages could lead to an increased presence of scammers.

BBB of Middle Tennessee President and CEO Robyn Householder said that when it comes to holiday shopping, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

“Especially in the market we’re dealing with right now,” Householder said. “If you’re finding products that for whatever reason appear to be at a dramatically reduced price from what you normally see, that’s going to be a big red flag. ”

Householder said that you can protect yourself from scammers while online shopping by doing your homework. She said that comparing prices, checking sources, and secure websites are all keys to online shopping safety. Living in the digital age we are today, pop-up ads can also lead people to fall victim to scams.

Householder said that one of the best ways to prevent a scam when it comes to shopping? Shop local.

“Because even if you’re shopping online it’s always beneficial to be able to touch that retailer,” Householder said. “Because that way you know they really are a legitimate company that thas the products that you need. And the other thing is everyone in our community has had situations of loss and financial stress through the COVID. So let’s get back to supporting those that are in the marketplace around us instead of some stranger that you simply don’t know anything about online.

Householder said that red flags include “scammer grammar,” in which postings have poorly worded sales, or people discussing a scam from that product or the seller online.

Householder said that when it comes to present shopping this holiday season, shop early and take your time. She said that because we live in a world of instant gratification, it’s important to take the time to make sure the sites you’re shopping on are legit and secure.