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Consumers Warned On Temporary Halloween Stores

CHICAGO (WBBM) - The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers how Halloween can be scary for them. Seasonal stores may not operate like those that are in business year-round.

LISTEN: Newsradio 780's Regine Schlesinger Reports.

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As seasonal stores pop up and all kinds of websites offer deals on Halloween costumes, consumers can sometimes be tricked.

Steve Bernas with the Better Business Bureau of Chicago tells the story of a woman from Buffalo Grove who ordered 6 or 7 costumes and was assured she could pick one and return the others. But when she tried to get a refund, she was out of luck and lost $300.

Bernas says there are ways to protect yourself.

"Stores that are only there temporarily, make sure you ask how long they're going to operate and what happens after Halloween if you need to return something. Buy with a credit card. Even if you have cash, you have an extra layer of protection with a credit card." If you pay by cash, it could be gone.

He also advises you to make sure you understand the return and exchange policies and get it in writing.

You can find more consumer tips at the Better Business Bureau Web Site CLICK HERE

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