Mother’s Day is a time to show love and appreciation — but sadly, it’s also a time when scammers ramp up their tricks to take advantage of last-minute shoppers.
At SMP Hawaii, we want to help you protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud this season.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe when shopping for that perfect Mother’s Day gift.
Research the Seller
Before buying flowers, jewelry, or other gifts online, check the company’s name, address, and phone number. Look for genuine customer reviews, especially on independent sites.
Watch for Red Flags
Be cautious if:
Prices seem too good to be true
Contact information is missing or hard to find
You’re pressured to “act fast” for a “limited-time offer”
Shop Securely
Only make purchases from websites that start with https:// and display a padlock icon in the browser address bar.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter a scam or suspicious site, report it to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), local law enforcement, or SMP Hawaii at www.smphawaii.org or call 1-800-296-9422.
Many scams begin with an email, text, or social media ad offering:
“Unbelievable deals” on flowers and gifts
Gift cards that seem too good to be true
“Guaranteed delivery” offers from unknown websites
These ads often link to fake websites designed to steal your payment information.
If the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a scam, SMP Hawaii is here to help:
📞 Call 1-800-296-9422
🌐 Visit smphawaii.org
We offer free, confidential assistance to help you recognize and report fraud.
Let’s make this Mother’s Day one filled with love, not loss.
Stay informed. Stay cautious. Stay protected.
