’Tis the season to be scammed

FOR many retailers, the run-up to Christmas is the busiest time of the year.

But as more people hit the high streets and buy items online, the more scammers come out of the woodwork – and even the savviest shoppers can fall victim. Here are some readers’ stories…

CREDIT CARD APPLICATION

After falling victim to a scam last year, John, from Southend, Essex, looks at his credit file every month.

During his most recent check, he discovered that a credit card had been taken out in his name on November 3. After contacting the card provider, he found £836 had been spent on the card.

John said the credit card company is looking into the matter.

FAKE WEBSITE

Gina, from Ipswich, needed a new laptop so planned to grab a bargain in the Black Friday sales.

After searching the web, she came across a site with lots of great deals so bought a computer.

She was so impressed with the deal, she decided to write an online review about the trader. However, she then discovered lots of reviews from other consumers confirming that the site was a scam.

I’ve advised Gina to contact her card provider and make a chargeback claim.

FAKE GOODS

Tom, from King’s Lynn, Norfolk, saw a Black Friday advert for big discounts on designer clothes. He clicked on the advert and bought two pairs of Diesel jeans.

When they arrived this week, Tom was horrified to find the clothes were imitations.

He paid with his debit card so I have advised him to make a chargeback claim.

FICTITIOUS VOUCHER CODES

Jenny, from Canterbury, Kent, received an email advertising “Black Friday Voucher Codes – up to 70% off”. The email directed her to click a link and fill out her details in order to claim some money off vouchers.

Luckily, Jenny got suspicious about all the information she was being asked to supply so contacted me. I soon discovered it was a scam.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING CLUB

Wendy, of Manchester, signed up to a Christmas shopping club in January. She paid £35 per month but has now found out it is a scam.

She paid by bank transfer so I have advised her to make a claim to her bank under the Authorised Push Payment Scam Code.