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Check it Twice: "Consumers' Holiday Wish List" Helps Californians Keep the Season Safer

While the holidays can be fun, amid the rush, consumers can become victims of bad deals, excess debt, charity scams or worse.

The California Department of Consumer Affairs has its third-annual list of helpful holiday suggestions that can make the season safer for all Californians.

More information on each of these handy holiday consumer tips is available at the Department of Consumer Affairs Web site, www.dca.ca.gov.

Consumers' Holiday Wish List

• Be a Wise Shopper
  Helpful hints on gift certificates, refunds, exchanges and more.
• Keep the Grinch from Stealing My Identity
  As we enter the busiest shopping season of the year, it's the time to build new habits of protecting personal information.
• Keep My Credit Cards Under Control
  The implications of using plastic can last for months or even years.
• Click With Caution When Shopping Online
  Many consumers go online to purchase holiday gifts. They can check Consumer Affairs' e-consumers tips on safely navigating the Internet marketplace.
• Don't Let The Holiday Rush Become "Holiday Blues"
  Coping strategies can help you handle the holidays.
• Don't Let Thieves Steal My Holiday
  The holidays are a time for family and fun, but they are also a busy time for thieves. A few precautions can help protect you.
• Give Wisely and Check Out Any Charity Before Giving
  People are in a giving mood, but it's also the season when scam artists prey on compassion and generosity.

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