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Black Friday: How to not get scammed

Posted at 5:42 AM, Nov 23, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-23 13:33:05-05

INDIANAPOLIS — It’s Black Friday and the deals are rolling in. But some of those deals aren’t really the best deal after all. 

Whether they’re the doorbuster deals, the all-day sales or the all-weekend sale, they look enticing, but boil it down and it may not actually be that great of a deal. 

Before you even head out, or if you’re already out and about, do some research, first. 

Take a look at the store’s website or their ad and look at the deal first. 

When it comes to electronics, be skeptical. Some of those cheap TV’s, laptops and other tech items are special Black Friday models that sometimes don’t always have the same features or same warranty as other TVs offered during the year.

It doesn’t mean the item won’t work, but make sure it has everything you need before you drop hundreds of dollars. 

Also, make sure you’re reading the fine print on the ad. Sometimes stores slip in specific restrictions or notes that may change the whole deal. 

While many will still head out to the brick-and-mortar stores, many shoppers will be trading the lines at the store for their mouse and keyboard. 

Online shopping this year is expected to be an at an all-time high for the holidays and the number of internet scams is also expected to be a record high. 

Fake pop-up websites will be popping up throughout the weekend. They’re there for a short time, scamming unsuspecting buyers and then they’re gone.

Before you enter your credit card information, make sure you’re actually at a legitimate online store. Experts say stick to the big-name sites that you’re familiar with. 

When you’re on the website, look for the little lock in the address bar and that the site’s address starts with https://, which means it’s secure.

Experts also say to use a credit card, instead of a debit card or bank account. That way, if you get scammed, you can report the charge as fraudulent. 

If something looks off or fishy, don’t enter any personal information. 

MORE | What to buy (and skip) on Black Friday 2018