Florida officials warn residents to beware of shopping scams during holiday season

ORLANDO, Fla. — State officials are offering tips to help avoid shopping scams this holiday season.

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Some basic ones include shopping from trusted sources and using secure payment methods.

They’re also asking people to be cautious about gift cards and recalled items.

Watch: ‘I had a mental breakdown’: Kissimmee man lost thousands of dollars from online scam

Attorney General Ashley Moody said the best way to pay for gifts is to use a credit card.

“There is a way you can dispute purchases,” Moody said. “They sometimes offer more consumer fraud protection.”

Watch: ‘It’s heartless’: Orlando family scammed out of thousands in home rental scheme

If you’re making a donation this season, beware of fake charities.

They recommend using trusted websites to ensure your donation goes to legitimate causes.

Read: ‘She sounded very professional’: Tech support scam costs Orlando man $2500

Here’s a link to the BBB’s charity finder.

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