Prime Day: Beware of Scammers + Porch Pirates
Not only is Amazon Prime Day one of the biggest shopping days, but it’s also the biggest day for scams and porch pirates. Many people are hunting down bargains and deep discounts on Amazon. However, shoppers are more vulnerable to scams this time of year.
The Better Business Bureau is warning that cybercriminals will be after the millions of shoppers trying to scoop up deals. Shoppers are urged to be careful and make sure an exciting shopping time doesn’t lead to falling victim to phishing scams, misleading advertisements, or lookalike websites.
They say it’s important to ensure everything you’re clicking on is real. It’s tempting to act fast when you see a great deal or click on a delivery notification if you receive an email. It’s best to use caution before clicking because scammers are more likely to impersonate the company to trick a vulnerable person. Amazon is the most impersonated business, according to BBB’s Scam Tracker. In fact, several reports, note “Amazon impostor” and “Amazon Prime spoof” victims are asked to click on links or put in their credit card information. Checking the URL is a way to verify the validity of the site. As well as, typing the URL to Amazon directly into your browser. (Also, check out some legit deals here.
Scammers & Porch Pirates
An estimated 1.7 million packages are lost or stolen in the U.S. every day, according to the security company Security.org. Post-prime day package theft is expected to rise. According to their data and Google Trends data, they expect package theft in the week following Prime Day to rise by at least 40%.
All isn’t lost when it comes to a lost package. Amazon’s A-to-z Guarantee policy protects customers who purchase goods from third-party sellers up to $2,500, but Amazon doesn’t get involved immediately. It requires customers to try resolving the issue directly with the seller. If it’s not resolved, the customer can file a claim with Amazon, which will notify the seller and determine if a refund is eligible. It’s worth noting that the guarantee applies to lost, stolen, or damaged orders.
For more information from the BBB or to report a scam here.
Live Your Best Life With These Prime Day Must Have Deals
iWalk Small Portable Charger 4500mAh Ultra-Compact Power Bank
I love my family, but they are horrendous at keeping their phones charged. This portable power bank is a game changer. It is not too big and you do not have to worry about cords or cables. Our portable chargers have kept our family connected to each other as well as social media and YouTube. Thanks, Mom! You’re welcome, kids.
Lightweight Compression Packing Cubes
My life is complete chaos; until it comes time to pack for a trip. I am a nut about staying organized and, more importantly, not having to iron once I get to my destination. I have two tips for achieving these goals: 1) Roll your clothes. 2) Packing Cubes. More specifically, THESE packing cubes because they offer a compression feature to maximize storage. My secret is packing everything in my cubes for the trip there; then packing and compressing for the way home so I have room for everything I bought.
Kasa Matter Smart Plug w/ Energy Monitoring
I love having a smart home, although I am not fancy enough to buy each item it takes for full connectivity. That is why I rely on these smart plugs. They connect to Apple Home, Google, Alexa, and more. I use them to set timers for when we are away and for waking the kids on school days. (Evil laugh)
iRobot Roomba i4 EVO (4150) WiFi Connected Robot Vacuum
I am pretty self-deprecating when it comes to my parenting skills (or lack thereof), but when I tell you I cannot clean a house it is God’s honest truth. Even if you are one of those people who claim to like housework, you must admit it would be pretty nice to check the vacuuming off the list week after week without ever lifting a finger. Take advantage of this deal. You deserve it, Queen.
Vacuum Sealer Machine Food Vacuum Sealer
Do you ever open your refrigerator and audibly gasp because it seems No. One. In. Your. Family. Can. Close. A. Container? Wet foods dry out. Dry foods become too moist and moldy. I have seen infomercials for these vacuum sealers for years and I am finally biting the bullet. Who doesn’t love a new gadget? And I know the kids will love to use it and watch their food shrink into the bag.
Bella Immersion Hand Blender
You know what’s the worst? Washing a blender. Those blades can be sharp, and you must stick your hand down in there so you can get the gunk out. NO MORE! I love my immersion blender. This thing is great for everything from tomato sauce to soups to protein shakes and so much more. And the best part? You won’t have to clean that stupid blender.
Gravity Electric Salt & Pepper Grinder
They say you eat first with your eyes, then your mouth. It is the same way with cooking. I love to cook, and when I have tools that make me feel more adept, I think my food tastes better. This electric salt and pepper grinder may seem like something you do not NEED, but it is a guilty pleasure that will make you happier in the kitchen. And when the cook is happy, everyone wins.
All-New Limited Edition Star Wars Darth Vader Stand for Amazon Echo Dot (invite-only)
My family communicates daily through our Alexa devices, and this is the perfect addition to my son’s room. Anyone can have that little black orb, but the cool kids have Darth Vader.
REVLON One-Step Volumizer Enhanced 1.0 Hair Dryer and Hot Brush
I love this thing and so does my daughter. We have quite different hair types: mine is fine and relatively short compared to her long thick hair. This hair dryer/hot brush combo is easy to use. It gives me volume and smooths and straightens my daughter’s hair.
Bagsmart Electronics Organizer Travel Case
How many times have you complained about losing your cord or accusing your friends, family, or coworkers of “borrowing” an electronic accessory and never seeing it again? This organizer will help you keep track of your stuff as well as prevent it all from getting tangled. Ahhhh …. I told you I am a nut about organized packing!
JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
My friend Jane has one of these speakers and she’s getting another one because it’s a great deal! This speaker makes a great holiday gift (for me, I hope).
Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener
No more cut fingers! This Kitchen Mama electric can opener is great for everyone, especially if you have littles who like to help themselves, and/or elderly parents whom you worry about.
Blissy Silk Pillowcase
Have you ever slept on a silk pillowcase? It’s a total game-changer. No more pillow wrinkles on your face and your hair doesn’t get weird folds that mess up day 2 or 3 of your last shampoo. Ladies, you’ll love these … and so will your men!
eero Pro mesh Wi-Fi system
My husband convinced me to get this wifi system for our house last Prime Day and it was a great decision. Our connectivity has never been better!
Anker Power Strip Surge Protector
When it comes to electronics, you definitely get what you pay for. If you buy a cheap power strip, you’re not going to get max power to the items plugged in. You may not notice if it’s a lamp, but when you’re trying to power your electronics, it can be really frustrating. I’m a big fan of Anker products and this is a great deal on a great power strip.
Neoprene Work Out Dumbells
Working out is tough to do, but it’s a little easier when you like your equipment. These dumbells are great colors, easy to grip, and have a great stand so they look good in your bedroom, living room, basement, or wherever!
Echo Pop & Smart Bulb Bundle
Save 65% on this bundle! The Echo has come a long way. We used to have “dots” in every room. Now we have a couple “shows” and a couple of the NEW “dots.” The Pop looks cool and you’ll feel like a boss walking into a room and asking Alexa to turn your lights on.
Beats Noise Canceling Headphones
Whether these are for you (to drown out the kids) or for your teenager (mine is rarely seen wihtout hers) 54% off Beats is exactly what your holiday shopping list needs. They’re great headphones and they’re cool. My teenager said so.
Kindle E-Reader
I don’t go anywhere without my Kindle. I honestly never even enjoyed reading until I got my Kindle. And it’s great for summer reading for your kiddos – because, face it, they’re more likely to use technology than not, right?
Liquid IV
If you have ever had a little too much to drink and woke up with a hella headache, you know that Liquid IV is your saving grace. It’s summer. You are going to indulge. Feel better with this great deal.
Hot/Cold Nursing Therapy
You may have heard that Jeff Kurkjian’s wife Emily is expecting in August and he just bought these. As a mom of two I wish I had them. Cool when you need it. Hot when you need it. I won’t go into details, but if you are a breastfeeding mama or know one, these are great.
Press-On Nails
Don’t you just love a beautiful manicure? I have such nail envy. My nails are thin and peel, so gel and acrylics are actually painful. I’m so glad to have found these press-ons that don’t damage my nails!
Electric Toothbrush & Water Pick
Do you floss? I don’t floss. I know it’s good for me, but I’m terrible at doing it. I do, however, love my electric toothbrush. I’m a much better brusher when I use it. I can’t help but think that I would actually use this water pick, too.
Apple Air Pods
Have you been putting off getting these bad boys? I was skeptical, but they are really convenient and sound great.
Ring Doorbell/Echo Show Bundle
Shhh. Don’t tell my daughter, but I’m thinking of getting one of these to use on the door she’s supposed to use to take the dog for a walk. But I don’t think she actually takes him out when we’re not home. Now I’ll have video proof.
Ring Alarm System
While we’re talking about “Ring,” this is a great deal on their alarm system. Maybe it’s time to upgrade your system!
Dyson Ball Vacuum
They say you shouldn’t ever buy your wife a vacuum – or any other cleaning supplies – but I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t be thrilled with a Dyson. Feel free to call my husband because I think this will fit nicely under my tree this December.
Stanley Travel Mug
My friend Rebecca accidentally left her Stanley at Dunkin. They’re so popular now, she was sure she’d never see it again. She called and it was in Lost & Found. Thank you good Samaritan. Now you should treat yourself to this great Prime deal.
Collapsible Microwave Food Cover
This thing will change your life. It’s one of my favorite things in my house because it prevents food from baking on the inside of the microwave, making it difficult to clean. It is collapsible for easy storage. It comes in a pair and is a multitasker, so you can use it as a microwave cover and the other as a bowl or colander. I seriously love mine.
Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper
If you really are what you eat, then my daughter is popcorn. It used to drive me crazy how much microwave popcorn she would eat, but then I got one of these and she pops the corn on her own. None of the chemicals you get in those microwave bags, and you don’t even need oil. It’s truly magical.
Hamilton Beach Portable Slow Cooker
Don’t you love a good slow cooker? I have this one and use it mostly for parties (sausage with peppers & onions, chili, bbq). I remember my mom using her’s all the time when I was growing up. She worked full time, so she would start something before work and it would be ready at dinner. Magic!
Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer
Have you ever watched a cooking show when the chef or baker is using a stand mixer? It seems so grown up and decadent to me. I can’t bake, so I never wanted to invest, but at $50 off this stand mixer is a great deal – and makes a great gift!
Cast Iron Dutch Oven
This cast iron Dutch oven is similar to a much more expensive name brand, but just as good if you ask me. I had it on my Christmas list a few years ago and find myself using it often. Non-stick, great quality, and makes a great appearance. Oh. And it’s more than half-off!
Fire Stick
Ready to cut the (cable) cord? Invest a few dollars in the Amazon Fire Stick and stream happily ever after.
To Kill A Mockingbird
Best. Book. Ever. I’ve read it three or four times and get just as much enjoyment each time. Prime Day is a wonderful time to stock up on beach reads, kids’ summer reading, and the classics you didn’t appreciate in high school.
- The Outsiders — “Stay gold, Ponyboy.”
- The Things They Carried — If you love a war book as much as I do, this one will move you.
- The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell — And it is extraordinary.
Pop Corners Variety Pack
My kids are at the age where they go through snack faster than I can buy them. I’ve resorted to having them delivered on a regular basis. They know they’ll get a box once a month and I’m not replenishing them a day before. It’s a lesson in … something, I’m sure.
Starbucks K-Cups
You would think the world ends every time we run out of k-cups in the Summers household. Getting them delivered and 30% off makes everyone happy.
Kerastase Shampoo
Buying salon-quality shampoo makes my wallet cringe. But when you 1 – save yourself a trip to the salon to get it, and 2 – get 30% off, it’s a little easier to bare. And you hair will thank you.
Jibbitz Shoe Charms
You have to personalize your Crocs. And it’s super fun to do when they’re half off!
23andMe Health + Ancestry Service
I got 23andMe for Christmas last year (and I’m sure my husband paid the full price). It told me things like:
- I’m not likely to have dandruff
- I am more likely to get bitten by mosquitoes than others.
- I wake up much too early for my DNA.
Digital Frame
Many years ago, we bought a digital frame for my inlaws and we periodically send them photos directly to the frame so it’s always updating. My heart was warmed when I found out my father-in-law watches the years’ worth of photos every morning as he drinks his coffee. Don’t deny your loved ones the chance to watch your children grow …
Baby Wrap Carrier
When I had my daughter I thought these things were ridiculous. Then, someone bought one for me when I had my son and I realized how short-sighted I had been. This wrap is such a comfortable and supportive way to carry your newborn to toddler.
MyPillow
Love him or hate him, the man makes a terrific pillow. Sleep well knowing you got a great deal!
Bug-A-Salt Shred-Er
I’m going to be compeletly honest. I can’t imagine ever using this thing, but I watched the video and it might be the most ridiculous item ever sold on Amazon. But if you need it, no judgement.
Hammock Swing
My daughter is bugging me for a hammock for her room. Like, really?! But this might do the trick. Especially when it’s nearly half off!
Digital Meat Thermometer
When I click on this, Amazon tells me I’ve purchased it 4 times. I can tell you I bought one for myself, and I give it as a housewarming gift to everyone. Ask my producer Shannon. It’s THE BEST!
Bug Bite Thing
I’m a target. Those little suckers see me coming and they devour my flesh. Producer Shannon told me about the Bug Bite Thing (it’s a staple gift in her family) and my life is changed.
Please note that items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time we published this list. Have an idea for a fun theme for a gift idea list you’d like us to create? Drop us a line at shopping@bbgi.com.
