The Better Business Bureau is warning of online shopping and charitable giving scams this holiday season.
BBB of Nebraska president and CEO Jim Hegarty says one scam involves websites pretending to be online retailer overstock.com. Hegarty says those sites will include the word “overstock” in their names. The scam is designed to lure users to the sites, thinking they’re shopping on Overstock. Hegarty says Overstock only has one website, and is a BBB-accredited business.
He also warns consumers who receive emails about charitable giving to make sure the charity is legit.
"Folks might receive appeals in the mail, or maybe they’ll see a pop-up or an email that looks like it’s coming from a very reputable or worthy charity, it might reflect homelessness or hunger, or children that are in need. It's very important that people make sure they’re dealing with a legitimate charity."
Hegarty says the BBB has a website, give.org, where consumers can learn more about charities.
He says online shoppers should look for secure websites and stick with well-known companies. Hegarty says there haven’t been reports locally of people being scammed by the fake Overstock websites.