Q: Dear BBB, My son wants a new video gaming system for Christmas that costs a small fortune at the local electronics store. I told him we couldn't afford it this year. Hopeful that I will change my mind, he has done some research and has found a website that is selling the gaming system at a substantially reduced price which is more in line with our budget this year. I would like to get him the system but I am concerned that this 'deal' is too good to be true?
~ Diligent Dad
A: Diligent Dad, You are RIGHT to be skeptical about purchasing electronics online at a substantial discount. With the possibility that holiday spending will be down this year, industry experts are predicting that some retailers will be dramatically reducing prices on inventory, and that includes many electronics. Unfortunately, not all websites promising rock bottom discounts on electronics are legitimate and consumers need to do their research when shopping online or they risk getting ripped off by a scammer's online store. To ensure you don't get ripped off, consider the following before making your online purchase:
1) Are the prices posted too good to be true?
2) Does the website have spelling and grammatical errors?
3) Are you being asked to pay via wire transfer or money order?
4) Does the business have a decent Reliability Report rating with the BBB?
5) Does the website use legitimate or fake security seals? For more information and tips on online shopping visit
vi.bbb.org.