BBB: Look out for social media scams while online shopping

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- With the countdown to Christmas in the single digits, many shoppers are scrambling to buy last minute gifts.

A growing number of people turn to their computers, but now, the Better Business Bureau is warning about social media scams.

Experts say online shopping scams are the most common reported to the BBB. The BBB says common social media ads scams include those that claim to support a charity, companies offering free trials and counterfeit merchandise.

They say if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

"If you're searching for an Aaron Rodgers jersey and then you're on social media, you might get a pop up for a cheap Aaron Rodgers jersey, but if it's low cost, it could be low quality, it could be a knock off or maybe there's no jersey, you just lost your money," BBB Wisconsin President and CEO Jim Temmer said.

Before buying online, Temmer recommends doing research on the business and looking for past reviews or complaints.

More information on social media shopping scams can be found on the BBB's website. If you've been the victim of a crime you can share your experience with the BBB here.