(NECN) - Tis the season for us to open up our hearts and wallets to our family - and the needy.
But buyer beware: there are plenty of scams to watch out for.
The Better Business Bureau is highlighting five common scams to be aware of, and tips to protect yourself.
Vice president of communications and marketing for the BBB Paula Fleming joins us this morning with more.
Fleming says if you're shopping online, look for a padlock key or a BBB seal. She encourages shoppers to check out privacy policies online, and check with friendly consumer organizations to see if some sites are legitimate businesses.
The PayPal system should be a safe way to shop, and Fleming says to never wire money, and use credit cards to stay more secure.
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