KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
The holiday season is the busiest time for retailers when people do most of their shopping, especially for big ticket items. The Alaska branch of the Better Business Bureau has some tips for consumers to help prevent buyers’ remorse.
If someone has a complaint about a business that they can’t get resolved, they can report it to the Better Business Bureau, says the Alaska branch’s spokeswoman, Tara Sims.
— (bbb1 :12 "If you have an issue … resolved, um, for you!")
Shopping online is becoming increasingly popular. It can sometimes save money but people need to know exactly what they are purchasing before they authorize payment, says Sims.
— (bbb 2 :41 "We see cases where … price in the end.")
And Sims says if one does shop online, it’s always best to use a credit card, not a debit card. That’s because debit cards, even those with a MasterCard or Visa logo, automatically take money from a checking account, making it harder to process refunds or recoup money stolen by fraudsters.
— (bbb 3 :37 "We actually really suggest … protections than debit cards.")
There are also e-mail scams preying on holiday shoppers that can lead to computer viruses or worse: identity theft.
— (bbb 4 :53 "We see cases where people … responding to an e-mail.")
The Better Business Bureau maintains a website that has searchable information on businesses and charities throughout North America.
