By Rod Davis, CEO BBB serving Southeast Florida and the Caribbean

Holiday shopping can be fun or stressful.  Here are a few tips from BBB to avoid problems while you find that perfect gift. 

• Research before you buy. Use BBB.org and shopper reviews to do your homework before paying. Also, read our tips for spotting fake reviews at bbb.org/all/spot-a-scam/how-to-spot-a-fake-review.
  
  
• If the deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. The top motivating factor for people who made a purchase and lost money was the price. Don’t shop on price alone.
  
  
  
• Beware of fake websites: Check the URL, watch for bad grammar, research the age of the domain, and search for contact information. See BBB’s tips to identify a fake website at bbb.org/all/spot-a-scam/how-to-identify-a-fake-website
  
  
• Professional photos do not mean it’s a real offer. Respondents reported that website photos motivated them to engage with scammers, especially for pets/pet supplies, clothing/accessories, and vehicles.
  
  
• Make sure the website is secure. Look for the “HTTPS” in the URL (the extra s is for “secure”) and a small lock icon on the address bar. Never enter payment or personal information into a website with only “HTTP” – it is NOT secure.
  
  
• Be careful purchasing sought-after products, especially during the holiday season. The risk of online purchase scams rises during the holidays because more people are making online purchases, and scammers offer the most popular products for the season at great prices.
  
  
• Beware of making quick purchases while scrolling through social media. Scammers have access to tools they need to learn about your buying behaviors, offering exactly what you want at enticingly low prices.  These products may never arrive or be cheap knock offs.
  
  
• Look for the BBB seal. BBB Accredited Businesses pledge to uphold the BBB Standards for Trust and to deal fairly with consumers. If a business displays a BBB seal, verify it by going to BBB.org so you can be sure they have earned The Sign of A Better Business.
  
  
• Use secure and traceable transactions and payment methods. According to BBB’s research, those who paid with a credit card were less likely to lose money. Avoid using other payments applications that do not provide the same protection. 

• Shipment tracking information can be faked. Look closely to make sure it is a legitimate business. Avoid clicking on the tracking link; go to the ‘shipper’s website and type in the code to see if it is real.
  
  
• Count on BBB to help you “Shop Safe, Shop Smart.” More tips are available at BBB.org/holiday-tips.
  
  

Many of us like to find unique gifts and/or support local businesses.  It is especially important to check out these businesses since they will not have a known brand standing behind them (e.g. like Target, Lands End, etc.). 

Fortunately, there are many trustworthy and unique businesses in our area that can help you find that special gift.  If you are looking for high quality shoes stop by Ace Marks (https://www.acemarks.com), fun clothes for men can be found at Male Basics (https://malebasics.com/) or maybe you want to find the perfect handmade wood furniture.  If yes, check with Wood Wonders Custom Furniture (www.woodwonderscustom.com/)

There are thousands of great local businesses here to help you find that special gift.  You can start your search at bbb.org.