12 On Your Side: How to avoid getting tricked during Halloween
News 12 at 6 o'clock / Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2012
AUGUSTA, Ga. -- Halloween is creeping closer and trick-or-treaters will spend an average of $70 a person during the holiday. If you're handing over that kind of money, make sure you don't get tricked and left without a treat.
Gigi Turner with the Better Business Bureau with the CSRA is warning consumers to keep their hands on their wallets and eyes on the signs when shopping for costumes.
"When you go in and purchase an item, you need to understand and they should have it posted what their refund policy is," Turner said.
Turner says to read over all return and exchange policies before making a purchase. Also, make sure the costume is not stained and has all of its parts.
You also want to pay using a credit card not cash, debit or check at seasonal Halloween stores. A credit card allows you to dispute any discrepancies.
Beware of buying costumes online, too.
"The holiday season brings out your cyber criminals and all they want is your personal information," Turner said.
Double check the website before placing an order. Look for "http" and "www" in the browser to verify the website. Another thing to keep in mind while ordering online is to check delivery times.
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