Tips for parents shopping for kid’s toys and apps
The holiday season is here, and for many families, that means shopping online for gifts. While buying online can be convenient, it also comes with risks, especially when purchasing toys and apps for children. The Better Business Bureau® wants parents to shop smart and stay safe.
Check privacy policies: Connected toys and apps often collect personal information. Before buying, read the company’s privacy policy. It should explain what data is collected, how it’s stored, and how it’s used. Some toys may require parental consent under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Look for the CARU Safe Harbor seal, which means the product meets federal privacy standards.
Watch out for misleading information: Retailers promote “hot toy” lists every year, but these lists don’t guarantee safety or privacy. Review product details carefully. Check if extra items, like batteries or accessories, are needed. Read reviews but remember that influencers and bloggers may be paid to promote products. Teach kids that not all reviews are unbiased.
Choose age-appropriate gifts: Age recommendations can be hard to find online. Toys for older children may be unsafe for younger ones or require adult supervision. Apps linked to toys might include ads or connect to social media, which may not be suitable for kids.
Protect your personal information: Only shop on secure websites. Look for “https” in the web address and a lock icon. Avoid clicking on links in emails that claim to be shipping updates, phishing scams are common during the holidays. Instead, go directly to the retailer’s website to check your order. Monitor your credit card statements for suspicious charges.
Report concerns: If you see advertising or products that seem unsafe or misleading, report them to BBB’s Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU). Your feedback helps keep kids safe.
For more tips on holiday shopping and budgeting, visit BBB.org for the business directory, which features profiles with verified reviews and complaint history to help you find trustworthy businesses. You can also file a complaint or submit a customer review. To learn more about how to avoid common scams, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams. If you or a loved one has encountered a scam, whether you’ve lost money or not, report itat BBB.org/ScamTracker and to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
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.
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