CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Dec. 21 (PIA) — Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) warned the public against different scams perpetuated by traders and individuals this holiday season.
DTI Regional Director Judith Angeles said among the most common forms of scam is via text message from an unknown number saying that an individual won from a fake raffle.
“You really should not believe those text messages. How will you win in something that you were not a part of. Let us not be dazzled by any instant money or any instant gift,” Angeles said.
She added that another modus of retailers is to convince consumers to buy using their credit cards.
“Although it has decreased now because fewer people are entering the mall, there are still unscrupulous retailers doing this. I don’t know what their motive is, but apparently, it is to convince you to buy an expensive item that is not of good quality. Also, consumers using credit cards tend to buy more,” the official said.
To avoid this, Angeles said consumers should already have an idea of what they are going to buy before they enter a mall or store, so that they will not be tempted by any offer.
Meanwhile, when buying online, she reminded consumers to check the legitimacy of the store.
“While we capacitate our businesses to go online, we are also calling on our consumers to do their part to avoid being scammed by ensuring that the online store is registered and has the necessary permits, and if it really has the products that it advertises,” Angeles said.
She added that as much as possible, consumers should pay via cash on delivery.
“Do not pay the product in advance or until it arrives. If it is not possible, pay using legitimate fund transfer channels or electronic wallets,” Angeles said.
Other forms of scams to be wary about, she said, include fake charities, smishing, phishing, and cyber theft.