Better Business Bureau Serving Northeast Florida & Southeast Atlantic

10/15/2026

For small businesses, Q4 success isn’t won in December. It’s won with preparation in October.

BBB’s Q4 prep checklist for business owners:
• Audit your return and refund policies: Make sure terms, deadlines, and restocking details are clear on your website, receipts, and signage. Transparency prevents chargebacks.

• Shore up seasonal supply chains: Order inventory buffers early and confirm lead times with key vendors now.

• Train seasonal staff on security: Ensure temporary hires recognize fraudulent charge attempts, phishing, and POS protocols.

Build customer trust that lasts long past January. Explore our complete Holiday HQ business guide: ➡ https://www.bbb.org/all/holiday-hq/business-tips

10/14/2026

Spotting a holiday deal that looks too good to be true? It probably is.

When Q4 starts, it is never too early to start Christmas shopping and as early holiday shopping ramps up, fake storefronts and social media ads are flooding consumer feeds. Scammers design sleek, convincing websites that take your payment information and disappear without delivering the goods.

Research unfamiliar retailers:

1. Look for a verified physical address, customer reviews, and a BBB profile before buying.

2. Pay with a credit card: Credit cards offer built-in fraud protection that debit cards, wire transfers, and peer-to-peer payment apps do not.

3. Watch the URL: Double-check domain names for minor typos, missing letters, or unusual extensions (.biz, .info).

Shop smart this season ➡ https://www.bbb.org/all/holiday-hq/scams

10/09/2026

Your package cannot be delivered due to an incomplete address. Click here to update your info." Sound familiar?

With online orders picking up, delivery and shipping phishing texts are circulating heavily. Scammers use false urgency to redirect you to fraudulent sites designed to steal payment details or personal data.

How to protect yourself:
• Don't tap the link: Legitimate carriers do not text from random numbers demanding urgent updates or credit card information.
• Verify independently: Track your delivery by going directly to the merchant’s website or the official carrier app.
• Report it: Spot a suspicious text? Help alert your community by logging the details.

Report suspicious messages or check active alerts at BBB Scam Tracker:

https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker

10/08/2026

Welcome to the newest accredited businesses of Better Business Bureau!

10/05/2026

Before you hire a contractor or lawn/tree service, keep these essentials in mind:

Check local licensing & insurance:
In storm-prone coastal areas, general handymen are not legally authorized to perform major roofing, electrical, or structural tree removals without proper regional licensing and worker’s comp.

Never pay cash upfront!
Avoid contractors going door-to-door offering end-of-season discounts who demand large cash deposits. Pay with a traceable method like a credit card after milestones are completed.

Demand written, detailed estimates:
Make sure debris removal, permit fees, and disposal costs are clearly spelled out so there are no surprise fees at the curb.

Keep reading ➡ https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/27102-bbb-tip-contracting-with-confidence-this-national-homeownership-month

10/01/2026

Beware of spooky bargains! 👻

Those crazy-cheap Halloween costume ads popping up in your feed could be a scam in disguise.

Don't get tricked before you treat. Tap the link for the key red flags to watch for before checking out: https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/30967-bbb-scam-alert-beware-of-halloween-costume-deals-that-are-all-tricks-no-treats

09/30/2026

In 2026, a strong password is only half the battle. 🔒

To protect your data and your business against automated cyber threats, you need an extra layer of defense:

• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all accounts
• Choose passkeys or authenticator apps over basic SMS verification
• Train staff to spot MFA bypass scams

Don't wait for a breach to take action. Read the full BBB safety checklist here:
https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer/tip/multi-factor-authentication-tips

09/29/2026

Small Business tip, 3 easy ways to build trust online:

✅ Respond to reviews
✅ Share testimonials
✅ Showcase your BBB Accreditation. Trust builds loyalty.

Follow for more tips that help you grow. 🌟

Curious about accreditation ➡➡ https://www.bbb.org/apply
or email [email protected] for questions!

BBB helps consumers and businesses in the United States and Canada. Find trusted BBB Accredited Businesses. Get BBB Accredited. File a complaint, leave a review, report a scam.

09/25/2026

Please give a round of applause for the newest accredited members of BBB!!

09/24/2026

It’s not a matter of if your data is caught in a breach, it’s a matter of when.

When a major company announces a security breach, the clock starts ticking for your personal information. Don't wait for a suspicious charge to start protecting your identity.

BBB’s quick checklist to lock down your accounts today:
• Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all email and banking logins

• Freeze your credit with major bureaus if you suspect exposure

• Never reuse passwords across sensitive accounts

Read our complete consumer guide to staying protected ⬇

https://www.bbb.org/all/identity-theft/consumer-protection/how-to-protect-your-identity-from-a-data-breach