TULSA, Okla. — Anyone caught off guard by winter weather over the weekend may be looking for things you need to be ready for the next round, from heavy winter jackets to pocket warmers to back up generators.
Just make sure to avoid scammers.
Jessica told 2 News, "I'm out a couple of hundred dollars, after trying to buy some winter clothes online that I thought was a real bargain for popular names. Turns out, I got ripped off."
The Better Business Bureau tracks reports of fraudulent online sellers advertising cold weather products and supplies that are either never delivered, of dramatically less quality than advertised, or don't not work once received.
Attempts to contact the seller or company go unanswered, and in many cases, there's no refund, or the customer may have to pay big shipping costs to send the item back.
The BBB warns being especially careful when:
- Buying name-brand or luxury coats and jackets that are advertised at a fraction of their typical cost.
- Sellers who insist on payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or mobile banking apps.
- When getting unsolicited emails from recognized retailers offering deals on winter products such as diesel generators.
Before buying cold weather items, the BBB said it's best to go directly to the retailer's official website, rather than clicking on any links contained in an email or text.
Remember, scammers are good at creating look alike websites, that they use to steal personal information, and cash.
Contact the Problem Solvers:
- 918-748-1502
- problemsolvers@kjrh.com
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