CALGARY (Oct. 26, 2026) -- The Better Business Bureau has seen an increase in reports from across North America about fake websites and online ads offering deals on Halloween costumes and other Halloween related products.
“Scammers are relentless and this is yet another example of the lengths they will go to get consumers to click on malicious links,” says Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen, President and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay.
She adds, “It might all look very legitimate. Unfortunately many of these deals are phishing scams to get people to click on links and then steal personal and banking information. If it seems too good to be true it probably is. Halloween should be a fun celebration. Don’t be scared by these reports. Learn how to protect your family from scammers at Halloween and every day of the year.”
What you should do
- Don’t click links in unexpected or random text messages
- Deal with trusted retail outlets when shopping online
- Use a credit card in case you need to dispute a transaction
- Be skeptical about online ads offering products at deeply discounted prices
- Check for HTTPS in the website address: S = Secure