ScamWatch: Holiday Scams

Posted on 17. Dec, 2008 by Money Talks News in Around The House, Family, Ripoffs, Shopping, Video

This is the time of year for giving. But the last thing you want to do is to make it a happy holiday for a scam artist. Here are a few of this year’s most popular scams.

Star-naming. If you’re considering naming a star for a heavenly body in your household, beware. There are lots of sites out there that claim they can name a star for you (prices range from 25 – 50 bucks). They can’t… not officially at least. So if you like the idea, pick out a star and make your own certificate.

Fake Charities. There are plenty of genuine charities out there; don’t give money to a fake. Never, ever give anyone a dime, or your personal information, without thoroughly checking them out. Especially if they come to your door or call you on the phone.

Fake Checks. Selling anything on the internet or elsewhere? Be aware of the fake check scam. Someone sends you a cashier’s check for more than the amount of a purchase, and asks you to wire the excess. The check could be counterfeit, and it make take weeks before your bank catches it.

Pet Scams. Buying a puppy long-distance? Don’t even think of sending money until you’ve personally seen the animal. It could be sick or nonexistent, and no reputable breeder would ever sell a dog without meeting you first.

Counterfeit Items. And if you’re buying anything expensive online, beware of counterfeits. It’s a six billion-dollar business and a lot of it’s happening online.

The holidays are scammer’s paradise because it’s a time of year when you’re the most busy…and the most charitable. Avoid being a victim by making it a time of the year when you’re also the most careful.