Scam watch: Avoid getting conned during the holiday season

Here is a roundup of alleged cons, frauds and schemes to watch out for.

In addition to good times with family and friends, the holiday season brings a number of potential threats for consumers. Here is some advice, provided by the Better Business Bureau.

Watch your wallet – Don’t become so distracted when making purchases that you leave your purse, wallet or shiny new iPhone unattended; it takes just a moment for a thief to swoop in and ruin your day. Also, do not leave your credit cards in open view for too long. Criminals have been known to jot down card numbers and use the information to make unauthorized charges.

Holiday e-cards – Greeting cards sent by e-mail from unfamiliar sources can be trouble. Do not click on links or attachments because they can include malicious software or viruses that could damage your computer or allow outside sources to view personal information stored on your computer’s hard drive.

Craigslist ads – Take caution when shopping for holiday presents on popular website Craigslist. Do not pay for items through wire transfer or other means, without first receiving the merchandise. Instead, buy locally and arrange meetings in person. If this makes you uncomfortable, bring a friend with you.

Follow Stuart Pfeifer on Twitter