The start of a new school year is just around the corner, which means it’s time for students to shop for new school supplies, clothes, and electronic devices.

While many stores will be offering legitimate back to school bargains, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office reminds consumers that con-artists will also be offering a few deals of their own aimed at unsuspecting shoppers looking for a good buy.

Below are a few tips to follow as you prepare to leave summer fun behind and head back to the classroom:

– Digital scam artists. These thieves send fake emails or text messages claiming to be brand name stores offering you a free gift card as long as you provide them with your personal information. Don’t fall for this as doing so will not only make you susceptible to identity theft, but will also put you on a “sucker list” that is in turn, sold to other scammers.

– Social media platforms. Pop-up ads, random links, fake profiles and deals too good to be true often appear on social media sites. Cybercriminals are known to sell counterfeit goods, “phish” for your personal information and encourage you to blindly click on a link connected to malware, spyware or adware.

– Fraudulent websites. Is that website you want to order from legitimate or is it a scam? Be careful when ordering online for back to school items by making sure the site has a physical address and phone number, the site features a padlock and https in the URL bar when checking out, prices aren’t too low to believe, and they offer a clear cut return policy. A Google search for reviews is also a good idea.

– Never use your debit card to order online. If someone steals your debit card number your entire bank account of cash is vulnerable. This is still the case even if you choose to use your debit card as credit. Instead use a credit card, which offers more protection against fraud, making it easier to resolve disputes.

– Prevent child identity theft. This back to school season is a good time to consider freezing your child’s credit to prevent them from becoming a victim of identity theft. In Florida, parents or guardians can contact the credit reporting bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax) to freeze a minor’s credit.

For more information on the subject, call the LCSO Community Relations Unit at 239-258-3280, or to report a fraud or scam, call the fraud line at 239-258-3292.

Source: Lee County Sheriff’s Office