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Unwrap Real Deals, Not Scams

Posted on 11/14/25

Several brown gift boxes in a pile on red

The holiday deals are already rolling in, but not every offer you see online is the real deal.

Fraud criminals often create websites that look professional and offer big discounts on popular items. But after you pay for the item, the product you receive might be of poor quality, not what was advertised, or it never arrives at all.

Be cautious of any online offer that’s priced way below what other retailers are charging. The safest way to shop is by using trusted retailers’ apps or typing their website directly into your browser — not by clicking links from texts, emails, or ads.

Learn how to spot and avoid scams with AARP Fraud Watch Network™. Suspect a scam? Call our free helpline at 877-908-3360 and talk to one of our fraud specialists about what to do next.

This story is provided by AARP Maryland. Visit the AARP Maryland page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.