St. Louis Consumer Fraud Task Force warns public about digital payment scams
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
ST. LOUIS, Mo., (KBSI) — The St. Louis Consumer Fraud Task Force is reminding consumers to be cautious when using digital payment methods, warning that scammers often target people who pay through mobile apps and online platforms.
Officials said the convenience of digital payments has increased their popularity, but it has also created new opportunities for fraud. During the holiday shopping season, consumers may encounter deeply discounted prices on popular items online, only to learn that the seller accepts payment exclusively through digital platforms.
The task force said consumers should research sellers carefully to ensure they are legitimate, particularly when digital payments are the only option.
Unlike credit cards, many digital payment methods offer limited protections. Officials said paying digitally is similar to handing over cash, emphasizing the importance of knowing and trusting the recipient before sending money.
More information about avoiding scams is available at BBB | Better Business Bureau.
The St. Louis Consumer Fraud Task Force was formed in 2002 and is a coalition of local, state and federal agencies, along with nonprofit consumer and business organizations in Missouri and Illinois. The group works to protect consumer rights and prevent fraud and has issued alerts on a wide range of scams, including holiday fraud, payment scams, elder fraud, internet romance scams and bogus sweepstakes.
Consumers who believe they have encountered a scam are encouraged to contact the appropriate agency, including the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, the Missouri or Illinois attorney general’s offices, local law enforcement or other task force partners.
