BBB serving Dallas, Lubbock and Wichita Falls is warning today about online purchase scams. Whether you are buying car parts, sheds, tribal apparel, or air pumps, do your research before entering payment information. Consumers report to the BBB that after purchasing the above-mentioned items, nothing is received from these businesses. BBB has identified several online retailers claiming Texas locations using these tactics.
“The companies below are a recent sampling of online retailers that have the attention of BBB. Our reports are an example of why it is so important to know and trust who you are purchasing from. Prior to purchasing, BBB recommends looking for BBB Accreditation, as that is a sign of trustworthiness”, said Monica Horton, BBB Spokesperson.
22 Star Sheds, Commerce, TX appears to be out of business. BBB began receiving complaints concerning orders not delivered in October 2023 and continued through January 2024. Some online retailers will have great looking websites. They take as much money as they can prior to shutting down the website along with all forms of communication. It is important to consider how long a company has been operating before doing business with them.
Airmoto in Carrollton, TX has an “F” rating with the BBB due to unanswered complaints. Recent complaints have highlighted untimely deliveries when consumers were expecting these items for Christmas gifts. Some complaints are resolved by the company issuing refunds or shipping the items after receiving a BBB complaint, however most complaints remain unanswered by the business.
BBB created a file on Lubbock, TX based, Lucky’s Car Parts in late January as a result of a complaint. Since then, BBB has received many more that are currently pending a response from the business. After ordering parts that they do not receive, consumers report to BBB that the company is not responsive to their calls. In some cases, consumers report their phone numbers are blocked by the company.
Tribal by N LLC in Frisco, TX has a pattern of complaints regarding non-delivery or only partial orders delivered, poor customer service and delays in providing refunds when one is requested.
This month BBB released it 2023 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report which shows online purchases are among the riskiest scams. The report concludes that 82% of consumers targeted lose money. Ages 18-24 were more likely to report a monetary loss via online payment system and bank account debit.
Tips and best practices to protect yourself when shopping online can be found at BBB’s online shopping HQ.
