National Consumer Protection Week (March 1–7) highlights the importance of scam awareness: BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston shares practical tips for consumers

During National Consumer Protection Week (March 1–7), BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston is reminding consumers to stay alert and take simple steps to protect themselves from scams and identity theft.

National Consumer Protection Week is an annual effort focused on helping people understand their rights and make informed decisions in the marketplace. With scams continuing to target individuals of all ages, BBB says awareness and prevention remain key.

“Scammers continue to change their tactics, using phone calls, text messages, emails and fake websites to trick people into sending money or sharing personal information,” said Chris Hadley, President & CEO of BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston. “Taking a few minutes to verify who you’re dealing with can make all the difference.”

BBB Offers These Consumer Tips:

• Check out businesses before you hire or buy.  Search for a company’s BBB Business Profile at BBB.org to review ratings, customer reviews, and complaint history.
• Slow down and think it through.  High-pressure tactics are a major red flag. Legitimate businesses and government agencies won’t demand immediate payment or threaten arrest.
• Be careful how you pay.  Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency are common signs of a scam.
• Guard your personal information.  Don’t share Social Security numbers, bank account information, or login credentials unless you are certain of the source.
• Be cautious with online deals.  If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Make sure websites are secure and provide clear contact information.
• Report scams.  If you encounter a scam, report it at BBB.org/ScamTracker to help protect others in the community.

BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston also encourages residents to safely dispose of sensitive documents and stay informed by participating in local shred events and educational programs. Upcoming shred days and consumer learning opportunities are listed on the BBB events page at:  http://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-central-south-carolina-and-charleston/events

“Education is one of the strongest tools we have in preventing fraud,” Hadley said. “When consumers know what to watch for and where to turn for help, scammers have a much harder time succeeding.”

ABOUT BBB

For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust. The International Association of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for the local, independent BBBs in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston was founded in 1985 and serves 15 counties in the Midlands and Lowcountry of South Carolina.