Mary Talks Money Episodes
The Sneakiest Shopping Scams
Thieves are getting savvier and it could impact your next shopping trip! From counterfeit electronics to stripped gift cards, find out how to spot the sneakiest shopping scams.
"Smishing" Scams
ShopSmart Magazine's Jody Rohlena tells us "Smishing" is the latest twist on the "Phishing" Scam. (The word is combination of "SMS" for short message service aka, text messaging.) Instead of getting an email from a "supposedly" trustworthy source -- like your bank -- you get a text message. Normally, you're told to call a toll-free that will try to trick you into providing your account information. If you do get a text alert about your account, Jody says don't respond before you verify that it is legitimate. You can also call a customer service representative or even try doing a Google search online to see if that number really matches your bank, etc.
Counterfeits
Counterfeits are still a problem particularly with electronics. Jody tells us that while online sites, auction sites and deep-discount stores are the most likely places that fakes will pop-up, some products have made their way to the shelves of major retailers. With electronics the risk is even more serious because the items could have faulty wiring or flammable plastic. To prevent it, look for a label stating the product has been certified by the CSA International or Underwriters Laboratory.
Stripped Gift Cards
Turns out there may be no gift at all if thieves get their hands on those cards before you. They use a handheld scanner to read the code on the magnetic or scratch off strip. That along with the card number give them what they need to steal the value of the card. Then they put it back on the shelf and you purchase a worthless gift card. To prevent it, Jody suggests buying cards behind the customer service desk and if the card looks damaged, don't buy it! Also hang onto those receipts!
Tiny Extra Charges
Jody tells us that thieves can get a hold of your credit/debt card number and charge small amounts. It could be a few cents or a couple of dollars. The charges generally appear on the bill with a corporate sounding name and a toll-free number. Try to call the number and it's disconnected or there's an answering machine. Jody says really look at every charge on your bill and question the charges that seem unfamiliar. The Federal Trade Commission FTC.gov lists a lot of facts on what to do if you think that you have been scammed.
