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Are there any packages waiting for you? Be careful, it can be a sign of fraud and better alert the Bureau of Business.
“Before placing an order from an unfamiliar retailer, please check where your package is, delivery time frame, return policy, and possible fees related to your purchase,” said BBB spokesman Melanie McGovern.
“Cheaters rely on consumer confusion, especially when it comes to news topics, doing a little extra to make sure the website is legal and all costs are upfront can save headaches in the future,” McGovern told USA Today.
Ambiguous delivery details can inform you of fraud
According to the BBB, here is how fraud works:
You see an ad online about what you want and you proceed to the seller’s website. The site looks professional, the prices seem reasonable, and check-out is quick and easy. But then your order never arrives.
Following up with a seller may result in vague, automated emails that require you to be “patient.” After that, there will be an explanation. Packages are stuck due to customs duties, customs delays, or new international shipping regulations. In some cases, the company says it is borrowing additional money to release the package. It also provides a tracking number indicating that the item has been delivered, but it will be in a completely different state.
One consumer reported to the BBB fraud tracker. “After not receiving the product for two months, I sent multiple emails to this company. The reply is that the package is locked in customs due to customs duties. I have requested a refund multiple times.
How to shop carefully online and avoid scams
Here are some tips from the BBB:
- Look beyond advertising. Scammers can pay for sponsored ads on social media and search engines, just like legitimate businesses. Always research your company first if you’ve never heard of it.
- Check out the reviews – all of them. Don’t rely solely on what appears in the comments section of your ads. Find out what pops up by searching for business names with words like “scam” or “complaint.”
- Please inspect the website carefully. Look for a URL that is incorrect, poor grammar or suspicious. Sites that appear to be polished may still be fake, especially if they are promoted through sponsored social media posts.
- Use a credit card for online purchases. Credit cards often offer stronger fraud protection than debit cards and payment apps. If the product doesn’t arrive, there’s a high chance that you can successfully challenge the fee.
- Please avoid paying extra charges after checking out. Once you have completed your purchase, the legal seller will not ask for additional shipping costs or customs payments. If you do so, please stop communication, contact your credit card provider and report it to the BBB fraud tracker.
- Do doubt customs related excuses. US consumers usually do not have to pay customs duties after ordering. If the company says your package is locked up in customs or you are seeking additional payments for customs, it is the main red flag.
- Save a copy of the order details. Keep a screenshot of ads, confirmation emails, and tracking information in case you need to file a dispute with your credit card company or report a fraud.
Betty Lin-Fisher is a consumer reporter for USA Today. Contact her at blinfisher @usatoday.com or follow her on X, Facebook, or Instagram @Blinfisher, @Blinfisher.bsky.social.. Sign up for our free daily money newsletter. This includes Friday’s Consumer News.
