Don’t forget! Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 13, and whether you’re giving flowers, jewelry, or other gifts, be sure to make smart shopping decisions.
Tips for ordering flowers or gifts online:
- Stick to reputable online retailers. Research the company or website with the Ohio Attorney General's Office and Better Business Bureau to see if other consumers have had problems with the business.
- Verify delivery dates and make sure you get a detailed description of what you order. For flower orders, the description should include the type of flowers, arrangement size, total cost, and message on the card.
- Go to a company's website directly to place your order; do not click on links in e-mails or social websites.
- Make sure you have up-to-date security software installed on your computer.
- Ensure that the website is secure. When entering any type of credit card or payment information, look for the "s" in the web address (https).
If you are buying gifts at a store, check the store’s return policy before you buy. Under Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act, sellers must clearly disclose their return policies before you make the purchase. Also read the fine print in advertisements to make sure you understand all the terms and conditions of a sale.
Watch for Scams
Beware of Mother’s Day scams, such as an e-mail claiming to be from a flower company and saying the flowers you ordered will not be delivered unless you log in and re-enter your credit card information. If you receive an e-mail that makes these claims, contact your florist directly to see if a problem truly exists.
Also watch for e-card scams, where you receive a card that appears legitimate but prompts you to download new software, which actually installs a virus on your computer. To protect yourself, beware of spelling errors and generic e-cards that do not include the sender's name in the subject line.
If you suspect a scam or an unfair business practice, report it to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or by calling 800-282-0515.