Oliver: ’Tis the season to be extra careful to avoid falling victim to shopping Grinches

’Tis the season for having a lot to do and not much time to do it, when a deadline looms to get a lot of shopping done in a short amount of time.

Some people thrive on the adrenaline that comes with the season, others not so much.

However, no one likes it better than the crooks and scammers who count on people being too frazzled to pay attention and to think things through. That’s why it’s a good idea to go over some tips to avoid being taken advantage of by some skilled and shrewd Grinch type.

The Illinois Treasurer’s Office and the Illinois Comptroller’s Office offer helpful information to keep shoppers safe from potential problems. Sometimes we just need to slow down and think. Of course, the bad guys are changing their strategies all the time. However, some of these scams have been around for years because they work.

Only shop with well-known retailers: Texts and emails offering unbelievable markdowns may be a scam. Check the email address to see if it looks legit and be cautious of links that could harm your device.

Beware of free apps that offer special deals or sales: Scammers might use free mobile apps that promise special access to discounts and restricted sales. However, once the victim downloads the app, criminals can steal financial information and passwords, which can then lead to them using the victim’s phone to send spam texts to others. Avoid this scam by downloading only reliable apps. Do a quick search online to determine whether the app is legitimate.

Beware of fake products offered at incredibly low prices: Scammers can post great pictures, enticing descriptions and low prices to lure buyers. When the package arrives, you realize that you paid for a counterfeit item. Avoid this scam by buying only from reputable sellers, like the actual brand’s online store. Typically, brands offer special online bargains and will have “secret sales” for subscribers every few months.

Use secure forms of payment: Federal law limits consumer liabilities when using a credit card compared to debit cards. That means you have stronger fraud protection and a better chance of getting your money back if you lose your credit card or it’s stolen, or if someone gets ahold of your credit card number. It’s also easier to trace credit card transactions online.

Be wary of package delivery messages: This may include random text messages and emails that alert you of delivery updates. Scammers will include a link in those messages that will most likely infect your device. Instead, visit the shipper’s website to verify changes to your order. You’ve probably received a legitimate shipping notification, so consider comparing the notifications before clicking any links.

Beware of fake gift cards: This is related to the fake parcel scam in which you receive emails saying you have been sent gift cards. Again, a link within the email can lead you to malware. The link will compromise your computer or tablet, and you could end up with a gadget full of viruses. Avoid this scam by getting your gift cards only from reliable sellers. If the gift card sent to you comes in a shady email, don’t click. Just delete.

Beware of fake charities requesting donations through email: Scammers send out emails requesting the target’s assistance, usually with photos and stories stolen from actual charities. The donated money will then go to the scammer’s pockets rather than the intended recipient. Avoid this scam by donating only through known charities. You can do this by visiting their actual website, which will often tell you how to donate.

Check your bank account and credit card statements regularly for any suspicious activity: If you have been a victim of identity theft, you can file a report with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office or the Federal Trade Commission and/or place a fraud alert or credit freeze with one of the three credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax or Transunion.

More information on holiday scams can be found here.

• Joan Oliver is the former Northwest Herald assistant news editor. She has been associated with the Northwest Herald since 1990. She can be reached at jolivercolumn@gmail.com.