BBB Says Beware of Phony Online Sellers
Written by WKTN Staff on March 25, 2020
As the coronavirus outbreak worsens, the Better Business Bureau’s ScamTracker has received numerous reports about scam websites claiming to sell face masks online.
As you strive to keep yourself and loved ones healthy, be sure to watch out for phony e-commerce sites. Even better, save masks for the medical professionals who really need them, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Masks are sold out in your local stores and many trusted online sellers, so instead, you turn to purchasing masks from an online shop you don’t know.
Unfortunately, phony online stores abound – especially when an item is in high demand.
According to Scam Tracker reports, these phony sellers take victims’ money and never deliver. One person reported ordering nearly $200 in masks and received no product or response from the seller.
In the worst cases, these sites are actually a way to steal your personal and credit card information, opening you up to identity theft.
You should keep the following tips in mind when looking for face masks or other ways to protect yourself from the coronavirus.
.Be savvy about product claims.
.Only buy from reputable stores and websites.
.Be sure the online store has working contact information.
