South Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division is urging holiday shoppers to stay alert for scams. They say, “Whether shopping online or in person, always verify before you buy.”
Common scams include:
- Fake delivery texts or emails with links to “track packages.”
- Tampered gift cards with scratched or altered codes.
- High-pressure sales tactics urging quick decisions.
Shopping Safety Tips:
- In-store: Review return policies, check for restocking fees, compare prices, and inspect gift cards.
- Online:
- Shop only on secure sites (“https”).
- Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
- Never provide unnecessary personal data (bank account, Social Security number).
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Pay with credit cards for added protection.
- Check shipping/return policies before purchasing.
- Smartphones: Keep devices updated, avoid suspicious apps, and be cautious of social media links.
- Scam messages: Watch for poor grammar, odd numbers, urgent demands, suspicious links, or unexpected refunds. Always contact the company directly instead of clicking links.
If you suspect you’ve been targeted, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at consumerhelp@state.sd.us, 1-800-300-1986 (in-state), or 605-773-4400.
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