Boomer Bits: BBB Tip: Back to School Shopping for Tech Supplies

Technology has become a permanent fixture of the education experience. After the crash course in educational technology that was the 2020 school year, teachers and students are increasingly confident in using technology for learning. Though its role in the classroom will continue to evolve, a precedent has been set – technology is a critical component of education.

Market research firm Deloitte details how educational shifts influence consumer shopping habits. Research indicates that nearly half of consumers want to shop online for technology purchases which opens them up to be potential scam victims. As families begin to invest in reliable technology, BBB® advises shoppers to beware of scammers who could spoil your hopes for academic success.

Along with the desire to upgrade or purchase technology, shortages of essential supplies like computer chips may limit the options available to shoppers, making some deals, too good to be true when you come across them. Together, these trends put consumers in a risky position – where they need products but can’t find them available from trustworthy sellers. In times like these, scams are increasingly likely.

Scammers may target shoppers with phony deals, enticing ads and attractive but fake websites. To ensure you don’t fall prey to a scam, savvy online shopping is a must.

BBB offers these tips for buying tech products ahead of the new school year:

• Shop with familiar retailers. Laptops, tablets or other tech accessories can be a significant investment. Shop with businesses you know and trust to ensure you’re getting a quality product and good customer service.
• Don’t buy from impostors. Fraudsters may use the name, logo and other characteristics of brands you trust. Closely examine the website to verify that they are who they say they are.
• Approach low prices with caution. Low prices and short-term sales could signal you’ve encountered a scam. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Some companies rarely offer sales. Do more research if a company that rarely discounts products offers a huge sale. The products may be used or refurbished, or it could be a fake website.
• Know what you’re shopping for. Set a budget, identify what capabilities will benefit your student and compare your options. Then, shop around for a reliable seller. Researching the best product for your needs will help you avoid scams and buyer’s remorse.
• Ensure you know who is the seller. Some big box retailers allow third-party sellers to list items on their site, and those items can be hard to distinguish from the rest. Read all the fine print to ensure you’re comfortable with the seller.
• Finish your shopping early. Supply shortages are possible, especially as many consumers begin shopping for the same products. Do your shopping now to avoid paying higher prices or falling victim to a scam.

Report scams at BBB.org/ScamTracker.

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