MILWAUKEE — High inflation rates and increased consumer goods prices are making the 2022 holiday shopping season an unpredictable one.
Many toys and electronics are in high demand and short supply, and retailers are struggling to keep staff as the shopping season continues to grow.
Because of product shortages and increased online shopping trends, the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin said there would be an increase in purchasing scams this year. These scams accounted for nearly 40% of all scams reported to BBB Scam Tracker in 2021, according to the 2021 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report.
Shortages are likely to make purchase scams even more common as desperate shoppers turn to random websites hoping to find this year’s must-have gifts.
The BBB recommends the following tips to “Shop Safe, Shop Smart” this holiday season:
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Research before you buy
Use BBB.org and shopper reviews to do your homework before paying.