About FlashAlert on Twitter:
FlashAlert utilizes the free service Twitter to distribute emergency text messages. While you are welcome to register your cell phone text message address directly into the FlashAlert system, we recommend that you simply "follow" the FlashAlert account for FBI - Oregon by clicking on the link below and logging in to (or creating) your free Twitter account. Twitter sends messages out exceptionally fast thanks to arrangements they have made with the cell phone companies.
Click here to add FBI - Oregon to your Twitter account or create one.
@FBIPortland
Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. This week: building a digital defense against online shopping scams.
If the pressure of the jingle bell frenzy already has you frazzled – you will be happy (or maybe not happy) to know that Christmas is just one week away. Just seven very short days to get everything done. But, if you are an online shopper and blue-light bargain hunter, you know you’ve got this covered. A few clicks, and you can have your shopping done in a breeze. Be warned, though, that scammers are on the hunt for seasonal shoppers.
It goes like this: your loved one has – with high expectations – placed that new gadget, video game or collectible on this year’s wish list. You search endlessly for the best value, but the prices are a little higher than you wanted. Then, you stumble upon a deal that blows away the rest. Good price and free shipping? You are sold! Of course, if the scammer got to you, the only thing that shows up at your door is a bill.
In many cases, a fraudulent online store or digital ad promises the best products at low prices, often much lower than what you can find at a known retailer. The victim snaps up the item, but then waits and waits for an item that never arrives. If it does show up, it may be damaged or the box may contain something completely different than what you wanted. You, the buyer, are left with an empty wallet and an empty box under the tree.
As you shop online this holiday season, consider these safe shopping tips:
A few simple steps can make a big difference this holiday season.
If you have been victimized by this scam or any other online scam, report it to the FBI. You can file an online report at the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.
Note to media: Tech Tuesday will be on hiatus for the 12/25/18 and 1/1/19 editions. We will resume on 1/8/19.