Scammers mimic jewelry stores and other retailers to steal credit card and personal information
The Better Business Bureau is urging Albertans to be cautious online after a wave of fake “going out of business” sales have started circulating, particularly targeting shoppers looking for deals on jewelry and other high-ticket items.
According to the BBB, scammers are creating fraudulent websites that either spoof real stores or pose as entirely fake businesses. The goal is to trick consumers into handing over credit card and personal information by advertising steep, unrealistic discounts.
“There have been some high-profile and lesser-known retail outlets that have closed their doors in recent months,” said Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen, President and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay. “Scammers are paying attention to this and creating websites and advertising that spoofs legitimate businesses and also making up completely fake businesses to steal from unaware consumers.”
The scam often begins with an ad on social media, claiming a well-known retailer is closing down and offering everything at deep discounts. Shoppers are then taken to a fake site that looks nearly identical to the real thing. Once a purchase is made and credit card details are entered, the fraud is complete.
“Their entire motivation is to steal your credit card and personal information to commit fraud,” O’Sullivan-Andersen said. “The end result is the same whether it’s a fake version of a real business or a business that doesn’t exist at all.”
To avoid falling victim, the BBB recommends typing a store’s web address directly into your browser rather than clicking on ad links. Consumers should also check that the website uses HTTPS, which is one sign that the site is secure. Shoppers are encouraged to use credit cards when buying online, as they offer more fraud protection than debit cards.
The BBB also warns that any site asking for unusually sensitive personal details, like your Social Insurance Number, is a major red flag.
“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” said O’Sullivan-Andersen.
Consumers who believe they may have encountered one of these scams or want to verify a business can visit www.bbb.org for more information or contact BBB Serving Alberta, and you can always visit a store in person for certainty, and to shop local.
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