While Online shopping is fast and convenient, purchases made in cyber space, particularly around the holidays, can leave shoppers susceptible to being scammed. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

buyer beware

‘The scams never stop:’ Island business watchdog warns of holiday shopping scams

Nov 28, 2023 | 2:07 PM

NANAIMO — ‘Tis the season for holiday shopping and gift giving, but also one where scammers play the role of scrooge.

Retail sales, particularly online, skyrocket through November and December ahead of the Christmas holidays, but with more people looking online for bargains, there is more opportunity to take a wrong turn and end up scammed.

Rosalind Scott, president and CEO of Better Business Bureau Vancouver Island, said if you’re shopping online ensure you’re at a legitimate, safe and secure website.

“The scams never stop, 24/7 365. People are more likely to be shopping online this time of year, maybe they’re looking for something they can’t find or buy locally. We always do recommend the very best way of shopping is to shop locally with real people in a real store and support your local businesses.”

Scott said bootleg websites may not appear quite right, or are missing some key information on different pages.

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Their URL’s, or website addresses, may also not be correct with numbers subbing in for letters (eg: amaz0n.com).

Research indicates it’s not just older people who are susceptible to losing out.

Scott said while seniors who might not be computer literate are vulnerable, younger people can sometimes fall victim too.

“They think they actually know the internet backwards, they tend to be risk-takers and just quickly click on things. They’re not as cautious and careful as [older adults] are. The mid-group tend to be a little safer because they’re thinking before they’re thinking.”

Scott also recommends researching a business you’re considering buying from online to ensure they are reputable.

Online reviews are one good way to ensure a company is above-board, Scott said.

“If it’s a problematic site, those reviews are going to be there with a pattern of negativity or things that have gone wrong, like they don’t honour their promises, their refund or return policy is not good…those types of things usually appear in a pattern form through reviews.”

Despite various economic pressures, 2023 could be a big year for retailers.

Online shopping giant Shopify reported $4.1 billion in sales for its members on Black Friday weekend this year, up roughly two per cent from 2022.

The average purchase per person was $171.60.

— with files from Bill Nation, 97.3 FM The Eagle & The Canadian Press

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