West Michigan BBB Warns Of “Game Day” Fan Apparel Scams

With the upcoming rivalry game this weekend between Michigan and Michigan State, a lot of people are trying to get their gear for the game and the West Michigan Better Business Bureau is warning you to be careful WHERE you buy your favorite jersey.

They warn specifically of the website www.miwolverinesbasketballstore.com. They have received a complaint from someone who purchased a Jordan Poole U of M jersey for $159 from the website that claims to be BBB accredited.  Sadly two weeks later, the customer still doesn’t have the jersey AND the BBB says that the website is not an accredited member of the BBB.

The worst part is, if you’re on the site, it looks like they are a member.  The creators of the site used the BBB accreditation logo without permission, but to the average customer, that’s what we see and say “oh cool, this isn’t a scam.”

Phil Catlett, President of the Better Business Bureau Serving Western Michigan says,

“One of the biggest dangers for consumers today is making purchases from a questionable website. The scammers and con artists are doing a better job at designing websites that look legitimate. Customers really have to pay attention and do their research on a website before they enter their personal and financial information.”

Catlett says while the website has the logo, a good tip-off that it wasn’t a legit website would be the numerous grammatical errors that the website had.  The Better Business Bureau of West Michigan sent a cease and desist letter to the website.

Other tips from the BBB about buying things online and not getting scammed are:

• Think before your click.Be especially cautious about email solicitations and online ads on social media sites. Many sketchy retailers advertise great deals or trendy clothing that don’t measure up to the promotional hype.

• Beware of too-good-to-be-true deals. Offers on websites and in unsolicited emails may offer free or very low prices on hard-to-find items. There may be hidden costs or your purchase may sign you up for a monthly charge. Look for and read the fine print.

• Shop with a credit card.In case of a fraudulent transaction, a credit card provides additional protections; it’s easier to dispute charges that you didn’t approve. Debit cards, prepaid cards or gift cards don’t have the same protections as a credit card.

• Keep documentation of your order. Save a copy of the confirmation page or email confirmation until you receive the item and are satisfied. Be sure to know and understand the return policy and keep this documented with your purchase records.