Attorney General offers tips to avoid last-minute shopping scams

ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s the holiday season and scammers are looking to take advantage of last-minute gift buying.

Attorney General Ashley Moody is warning Floridians to be on the lookout for scams.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

“The last-minute buying frenzy before Christmas can create opportunities for scammers trying to steal your holiday cheer,” Moody said. “Be extra cautious while you shop and follow a few smart-shopping tips I am releasing for Floridians looking to finish their shopping list before Santa makes his rounds.”

Read: Beware of These Gift Card Scams for the Holidays

Moody recently released the 2021 Holiday Consumer Protection Guide, which contains information about safe online shopping, how to avoid charity-related scams and a list of recalled items.

Read: BBB warns about holiday scams

Here are a few safety tips to stay safe this holiday season:

· Use a credit card, instead of a debit card, when shopping online. Credit cards allow consumers to dispute a charge more easily.

· Know that credible businesses will not demand payment via gift card - this is always a scam.

· Be careful using cryptocurrency, as the volatile market attracts opportunistic scammers.

· Check bank and credit card statements regularly to ensure there are no fraudulent charges or withdrawals.

· Never provide personal or financial information to anyone whom you do not know.

· Create strong passwords to protect against identity theft, hackers and online fraud.

Read: Florida attorney general releases 2021 Holiday Consumer Protection Guide

Another safe-shopping resource to use is Scams at a Glance: ‘Tis the Season.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.