Avoid scams while spoiling mom: BBB shares smart shopping tips

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and 84% of people say they’ll be celebrating. According to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation, families are planning to spend an estimated $34.1 billion on gifts this Mother’s Day, with popular items being flowers, gift cards and memorable outings.

If you’re shopping for Mother’s Day — whether online or in stores — your Better Business Bureau reminds you to stay alert and shop smart to avoid scams. BBB’s Annual Risk Report identifies online purchasing scams as the fourth riskiest.

Start early to avoid rushed decisions and out of stock items. Also set a budget to narrow down your options and avoid overspending.

Here are a few tips for safe shopping for the most popular Mother’s Day gifts:

Flowers: Make sure you order early enough to allow time for delivery, ask about all fees associated with your order and make sure the date is specified clearly and guaranteed when you order. Ensure the florist offers a freshness guarantee or a replacement policy if the flowers arrive damaged or wilted.

If you’re shopping online, take your time and read the fine print before submitting your order. Look for added fees like shipping, handling and delivery.

Do your research. It’s important to choose wisely and find someone you can trust with your order. Visit BBB.org to identify local BBB accredited florists and check out other companies you may be considering. BBB has received several complaints and BBB Scam Tracker submissions identifying some sites that have taken payments but have failed to deliver floral arrangements.

Electronics: Whether you plan to buy Mom a new phone, tablet or other electronic device, leave it in its original packaging. Many retailers require the original packaging to process returns or exchanges. Buy from reputable dealers, and check their ratings on BBB.org.

Jewelry: Do your research and consider visiting a jewelry store near you versus buying online. Keep your receipts and read the fine print. Ask questions about their return policy.

Guides, tours, classes: Art classes, wine tastings and cooking lessons are fun ways to celebrate and spend time with Mom. However, it’s important to get the details of these activities in writing. Be sure to clarify total costs and features, if reservations are needed and if there are any restrictions, special time requirements or cancellation fees.

Gift cards and certificates: Check the terms and conditions of any gift card or certificate before buying so that it won’t be a problem. Make sure the gift card has not been tampered with and be sure to hold on to receipts in case there are any issues with the funds.

Shopping for gifts online: Avoid suspicious websites and alluring pop-up ads, especially on social media sites. Don’t click on hyperlinks in unsolicited emails and be sure to check out all companies with BBB at bbb.org. Pay close attention to the company’s URL before clicking over to their site. Many scammers create URLs that are extremely similar to well-known and trusted brands, hoping to draw you to their fake site.

Be sure you understand a company’s return and refund policies before making a purchase. Look for and review the details of any fine print on the site.

Pay safely: If you feel you’re shopping with a reputable seller, still ensure that their site is secure before entering payment information and finalizing a purchase. Verify that the website has the https:// and the lock icon in the URL. (The “s” at the end of http is the key). Pay with a credit card or PayPal and consider it a red flag if the company requires a payment form that doesn’t typically include protections or a paper trail — such as debit purchases, a cash app or gift card.

You can visit BBB’s online shopping HQ for the latest online shopping news. BBB also offers more information about buying flowers.

You can contact BBB’s team at 423-266-6144 or by email at tngabbb@chattanooga.bbb.org.

Michele Mason is president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.