Scammers see opportunity as holiday shoppers rush to buy final gifts in stores, online

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- It's crunch time as Christmas is a week away, and many shoppers are still looking for that perfect gift. If you're buying a last-minute gift, whether in-store or online, research is key.

If you're shopping online, check to make sure the Christmas shipping guarantee deadline has not already passed. Also, be on guard for copycat websites that just take your money, and you either never get the product or get a dupe. Alyssa Parker with the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Carolinas says, "A lot of times scammers will use names that sound alike, it may be one word off that sounds really close, or the website may be one or two letters off from the real one."

Beware Puppy Scams

Another scam, Parker says, that targets people right before Christmas is those looking to add a puppy to their family. "If you want a really exciting breed and you see something that's too good to be true as far as price goes, that is a huge red flag," Parker adds.

The BBB says pet scams are on track to account for 18% of the online shopping frauds this year, costing consumers about $2 million. Besides scam websites advertising pets, Parker says you also need to watch out for sick puppies. "A puppy from a puppy mill where the dog is sick or just wasn't raised in great conditions," Parker added.

To protect yourself, ask to see medical records from vet visits, and see if you can take the puppy for a wellness check before committing.

Gift Card Dos and Don'ts

One of the most popular gifts to give is gift cards. The choices are endless.

Before you buy, take a look at the gift card packaging. Take a look to see if there are any numbers exposed, and if it looks tampered with. If there are any signs that something is not right, don't buy it.

Also, pay attention at checkout. Make sure the gift card is activated and always save the purchase receipt as proof of value if issues arise. If you receive a gift card, try to use it wisely. As businesses go out of business, you don't want to get stuck with a useless gift card if the store or business closes up shop.

SEE ALSO | Here are 12 holiday scams to watch out for this season