As if we didn't have enough to worry about, scammers are out in full force this holiday season. With the COVID-19 pandemic in full swing, many of us are choosing to shop online. The FBI warns that scammers are using increased opportunities that on line shopping provides to scam Minnesotans.

Kerkez ThinkStock
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“Scammers are very much looking forward to the holidays to find ways to swindle unsuspecting shoppers.  Due to COVID-19, shoppers should be more vigilant than ever for scams designed to steal their money and personal information.” - said Michael Paul, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Minneapolis Field Office.

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According to the FBI, these are some of the most common scams happening this holiday season:

  • Online Shopping Scams:  Too-good-to-be-true deals via phishing emails or advertisements.
  • Social Media Shopping Scams: Beware of posts on social media sites that appear to offer vouchers or gift cards.
  • Work-From-Home Scams
  • Gift Card Scams
  • Charity Scams: Phony charities, especially during the holiday season.  Know who and what you are donating to.

The best advice is to just be smart and do a little research into charities that ask you to donate. Check out websites that offer "too good to be true" deals.

It's also a good idea to keep a record of everything you ordered and when you ordered it. I've been stung a couple of times by not receiving what I ordered.

(FBI.gov)

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