Experts warn against Black Friday scams

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Thousands streamed back into stores this Black Friday.

The National Retail Federation said over 166 million Americans will shop this weekend.

While more people are opting for brick-and-mortar since the pandemic, up 64% compared to last year, according to the National Retail Federation, many of us will also spend our bucks online this weekend.

But with great deals comes a great deal of risk.

Friday, FBI Charlotte tweeted out a reminder to check the validity of what you’re buying and where you’re buying from.

The AARP, a nonprofit assisting those over 50 years old, said to be wary of fake ads, websites, charities and even delivery emails.

Each can be a scam, but a spelling error or an unfamiliar email address can give them away. Experts also say any website that asks you to pay by gift card or wire transfer is probably a scam.

Lastly, you can always Google the company and fact-check offers to verify it’s the real deal.

Related: “Whatever I got you last year, cut that in half”: Inflation changing spending this holiday season

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