Today Marks Start of Holiday Shopping Season

Today is Black Friday, traditionally the biggest shopping day of the year and the start of the holiday shopping season.

As people head out to the stores or online this weekend and over the coming weeks, the Better Business Bureau of Northeast Georgia has some advice for those hunting bargains and deals.

Better Business Bureau Spokesperson Mike Boynton said people need to do their research before heading out to shop.

“When you see an ad, make sure you read it carefully,” said Boynton. “This Friday is Black Friday and it is known for door-busting sales. That is the start of the big Thanksgiving (shopping) weekend. Plenty of ads out there, but take a look. Sometimes there are restrictions on that. Know what you are buying before you make that purchase.”

Meanwhile, as people head out to the stores, it is important to remember to be safe.

Toccoa Police Chief Tim Jarrell said people need to make sure their vehicles are secure while they are out shopping.

“For those people who are going to be shopping this holiday season, we want to remind them not to leave their merchandise in plain view in their vehicle,” said Jarrell. “Secure it in the trunk of the vehicle or take it home before they continue shopping.”

Today is not the only big shopping day as Monday has become known as Cyber Monday, the biggest online shopping day of the entire holiday season.

Boynton said shopping online has its advantages, but only if people are safe.

He said people need to make sure they are shopping on secure websites and making secure transactions when shopping online.

“There are many great deals, but sometimes there are scammers out there,” said Boynton. “Know it is a reputable website and a reputable company you are dealing with. Credit card transactions are the easiest because you can put a hold and challenge that transaction, not so with a debit card. So that is the safe thing to do, use that credit card.”

Also, Boynton said people shopping online need to make sure their anti-virus software is up to date and also avoid clicking on links in unsolicited email and social media messages.

For more information, visit www.bbb.org.