Everyone enjoys finding a good deal, especially when prices seem to keep climbing. Digital coupons, promotional codes and special discounts can help stretch a household budget, but they can also create opportunities for scammers.
Fake coupons are becoming increasingly common on social media, where they can spread quickly through shares and reposts. While the offers may look like they came directly from a well-known retailer, many are designed to steal personal information, collect payment details or lure shoppers to fraudulent websites.
Look beyond the discount
Scammers know that an incredible bargain is hard to resist. They often advertise discounts of 80% or more, free gift cards or exclusive promotions that are supposedly available for only a limited time.
Some fake coupons direct shoppers to websites that imitate legitimate retailers. Others promise savings in exchange for completing surveys, paying a small processing fee or signing up for a membership that provides little or no value. In many cases, consumers never receive the promised discount.
When an offer seems unusually generous, pause before clicking. A few minutes of research can save both money and frustration.
Know where your coupons come from
One of the easiest ways to avoid counterfeit coupons is to use offers directly from the retailer, manufacturer or a trusted coupon provider.
Instead of clicking links in emails, text messages or social media posts, visit the retailer’s official website to see whether the promotion is listed there. If a coupon contains spelling mistakes, poor grammar, blurry logos, missing expiration dates or unusually generous discounts, these can all be signs that a coupon isn’t authentic.
It also pays to spend a few minutes researching an unfamiliar promotion. Searching the company or offer online may reveal that other consumers have already reported problems.
Protect your personal information
Legitimate businesses do not require you to pay for coupons or provide sensitive financial information simply to receive a discount.
Be cautious if a promotion asks for your bank account information, credit card number or other personal details before allowing you to access a coupon. Protecting your information is just as important as protecting your money.
Save with confidence
Coupons can be a great way to save money when they come from trusted sources. By taking a few extra minutes to verify an offer before you click, you can enjoy genuine savings while protecting your money and personal information.
For more information, visit BBB.org. BBB’s business directory features profiles with verified reviews and complaint history to help you find trustworthy businesses or file a complaint or submit a customer review. Visit BBB Scam Tracker to research or report scams at BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Jan Diaz is the President/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Northern Indiana, which serves 23 counties. Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit BBB.org.
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Are those online coupons real or a scam?
Reporting by Jan Diaz, Guest columnist / South Bend Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Jan Diaz, Guest columnist | USA TODAY Network
