#ShopwithTrust

12Tips to a Fun and

Safe Holiday Season

GIFT RECEIPTSAlways ask for a gift receipt. This way the recipient can return or exchange a gift.

WARRANTY INFORMATIONInquire about the store’s return policy before purchasing. Also, be sure to pass along any information about returns, exchanges, repairs, and warranties to the person who will use the item.

RESEARCHRead product reviews, check BBB.org Business Profiles, look at sales flyers and ads, compare prices, look for early promotions and “flash sales.” For tips on searching online, check out BBB Digital IQ.

MOBILE SECURITYWith so many shoppers using their mobile devices to research and make purchases, it’s important to secure your device. Make sure the operating system and all apps are updated. Also, actively manage your location services, Bluetooth, microphone and camera – make sure apps use them appropriately.

PUBLIC WI-FIPublic Wi-Fi is vulnerable to thieves and fraudsters looking to steal your info. When in stores or restaurants, avoid using banking and other apps that access sensitive, personal information.

EMAIL PHISHINGWith all the promotional emails received during the holidays, scammers will be out in full force. It’s best not to click on links from senders you don’t recognize. You can also hover your mouse over links without clicking to see if the address is really taking you to where it says it is. Also, check the reply email address. The address should be on a company domain. Watch for look-alike domains.

INTEREST-BASED ADVERTISINGAs you browse the web or use your favorite store’s app, you might notice ads personalized to you, sometimes based on your previous web searches. This is called Interest-Based Advertising, which is often signaled by the Ad Choices logo in the corners of ads. If you want to opt out of receiving this type of advertising, download the AppChoices app or visit

SHARE A GUIDERequest a free holiday issue of the BBB Wise Giving Guide to be sent to a friend or family member this giving season!

LOOK OUT FOR SCAMSIf you suspect a scam, check out BBB Scam Tips to learn more (bbb.org/scamtips) or report scams to BBB Scam Tracker (bbb.org/scamtracker).

CHARITY DISCLOSURECheck out give.org to find BBB Accredited Charities that have fully disclosed information to BBB Wise Giving Alliance. Although participation is voluntary, you may want to be cautious of charities that don’t disclose requested information to BBB.

WHAT’S IN A NAMEBe on the lookout for name similarities. Dubious charities often pick a name that sounds like a more famous charity. Before you give, be sure you have the exact name of the charity you want to support. Learn more about charitable giving at give.org.

BACK UP YOUR DATAHave an online backup option in case your device is attacked by hackers. You do not want to lose all your family’s information and memories.

Find out more at https://www.bbb.org/council/holiday-helper/