Black Friday Shopping in Texas: How to Avoid Scams

Sometimes, you see that one perfect gift that uncle Jimany would absolutely LOVE. However, the price makes you think that it might be too good to be true. Well, there's a chance that, here in the Lone Star State, it actually is.

Avoiding Scams at Stores

According to Fox 7 Austin, the Better Business Bureau serving the Heart of Texas (BBB) warns that scammers are becoming more bold by stealing numbers off of gift cards before they are even purchased. You may find a great Dave and Buster's $50 gift card, but someone already opened the card and wrote down the number before carefully closing the wrapping back up.

What happens next is when you attempt to register the card, the funds magically vanish, straight into the scammers pocket.

This is why it's crucial that you check each gift card for any tears, creases or openings before you buy it. Also, always register the card at the physical store with the cashier. This way they can verify the card's legitimacy in person.

The BBB also stated that, between 2022 and 2023, Texas lost nearly $1 million to scams.

Knock Off the Knock-Offs

Get this, another way that Texas Black Friday shoppers are getting ripped off is when they follow email or online links for deals on items. These links can be as fool-proof as copying the original URL perfectly... except that one letter or number is different.

Always remember to check the URL of whatever site you go to when gift shopping, and never forget to check your bank account after each purchase to ensure the proper amount was taken out.

Another tip: Always keep the receipt with any gift you purchase. This way when your mom receives yet another Mickey Mouse cookie jar, she has the option to discreetly return it...