DTI warns vs ‘12 scams of Christmas’

PASKO NA NAMAN. Christmas lanterns light up the streets, bringing in the festive mood of the holiday. PHOTO BY RON LOPEZ/ INQUIRER CENTRAL LUZON

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has advised the public to be vigilant against fraud and scams this Christmas season.

In an advisory on Facebook, DTI warned consumers against the most prevalent scams during the holidays which it called “12 SCAMonsters of Christmas.”

1. Fake charities

DTI warned the public against bogus organizations which names are unfamiliar or they have never encountered before. The department advised the public to make an extensive research first before making any donation to a charity.

2. Holiday raffle

The department warned against holiday raffles widespread on social media such as ones promising Noche Buena package and other Christmas treats. DTI advised the public to join only legitimate and approved sales promo which can be seen here: https://www.dti.gov.ph/consumers/approved-sales-promotions

3. Unregistered Christmas sale

DTI said consumers should not avail or entertain sales without permit, poster, or print ads.

4. Online gadget giveaway

DTI urged the public to be vigilant against unverified or fake social media accounts promising gadgets like television and smartphones by merely liking, sharing or commenting on their pages.

5. Malicious online shopping websites

DTI advised the public to avoid visiting websites without a secured URL or terms and conditions, as well as those with too many advertisements. The department said consumers should make it a habit to read customer review or feedback before making any purchase online.

6. Seasonal travel scams

The department also warned against “too-good-to-be-true” travel promos that only operate online without physical office, company registration documents, and business licenses.

7. Holiday decors gone wrong

Consumers should always check for ICC sticker in buying Christmas lights, which means that the product passed DTI’s mandatory safety tests.

8. Holiday “SMiShing”

DTI warned against phishing via text messages that claim the receiver has won a Christmas raffle per a fake DTI permit. The department advised the public to report mobile numbers sending such text messages to the National Telecommunications Commission: https://ntc.gov.ph/?page_id=1301

9. Networking/pyramiding scams

Instead of participating in networking, DTI advised the public to avail of free consultations and seminars through the department’s Negosyo Center.

10. Cyber thief

DTI warned the public against mobile applications asking for bank details and other personal information to download software or avail of free gadgets. Users should download applications only through official stores.

11. Bogus gift certificates

DTI warned against supposed agents giving away gift checks in malls and other public spaces. “Gift cards from unauthorized sellers spell fake,” the department said.

12. ATM skimming

“Be wary about the teller machines when you conduct your transaction, always check the card slot, keypad, cash dispenser, and even your surrounding before inserting your card,” DTI said. YG/JE/rga