Each fall, state Attorney General Tom Corbett asks his staff to list the newest -- along with the oldest -- scams and schemes Pennsylvania residents should look out for as they go about their holiday shopping and related activities.

"The holidays can be a busy and exciting time, filled with many distractions, so it is extremely important for consumers to think before they spend," Mr. Corbett said. "The pleasure of the holiday season can quickly be spoiled by crimes like identity theft or disputes involving gift purchases."

Nils Frederiksen, spokesman for the attorney general's office, said consumers this year have filed complaints about in-store and online shopping and return policies, seasonal businesses, identity theft, credit histories, charitable programs and door-to-door solicitations.

And, of course, gift cards and gift certificates.

"There have been a lot of calls and inquiries about the feasibility of gift cards, especially in the last few weeks," Mr. Frederiksen said. "We are urging consumers to be careful. If they receive a gift card, they should use it right away.

"If a gift card goes unredeemed, you have given that business a free loan," he said. "And a gift that goes unredeemed is a gift that never gives. You'd be better off receiving a cheese of the month."

Mr. Corbett said consumers should check a number of important details before making a purchase at a store:

• Carefully review the exchange and return policy for restrictions or exceptions.

• Check for fees and expiration dates when shopping for a gift card or gift certificate. He noted that consumers "may also want to consider the financial health of the store they are dealing with, or consider a gift card that is not attached to one particular business."

• Keep all records and receipts in case you need to return an item or as proof-of-purchase for warranty repairs.

• Check receipts for errors before you leave the store.

• Be careful dealing with seasonal businesses that may quickly disappear.

• Watch your purse or wallet and avoid carrying extra credit cards or personal information that could be lost or stolen.

"Online shopping has become increasingly popular, but making purchases by long-distance generates other potential problems and pitfalls," Mr. Corbett said.

Consider the following tips:

• Do your homework before buying, especially if you never have dealt with a particular store or seller before.

• Comparison shop for the best price, including shipping and handling fees.

• Research the seller to see if they have a history of problems or disputes.

• Understand all shipping costs and delivery times.

• Review refund and return policies.

• Read the businesses' privacy policy to be certain that your information won't be sold or shared without your knowledge.

• Print all receipts and e-mails to verify your purchase.

• Make sure your computer anti-virus program and firewall is up-to-date.

• Watch for "look alike" Web sites that are used by scam artists.

Mr. Corbett also said that consumers should be cautious about identity theft during the holidays.

"Whether shopping in person or online, your credit card numbers and other personal information can be at risk if you don't take steps to protect it."

• Keep your personal information in a safe location. Carry only the credit cards and other items that you need to make a purchase.

• Shred all unwanted credit card and other financial "junk" mail.

• Don't give personal information over the phone or by e-mail. Identity thieves may pose as representatives of banks, Internet service providers and even government agencies to get you to reveal information.

• Review all credit card and bank statements as soon as they arrive and contact your bank or card company immediately if you discover any unauthorized charges.

• And check your credit history regularly. Every consumer is entitled to one free credit report each year from the three major credit bureaus. Check your report several times per year to spot potential problems.

As for supporting charitable programs, Mr. Corbett said that although it is important, consumers should also carefully consider any request for money.

He suggests people:

• Donate to charities that they are familiar with and whose activities they support.

• Feel free to ask for additional information, in writing, about charitable programs.

• Find out how much of a donation will be used for charitable activities, as opposed to administrative and fundraising expenses. Information on charities is available on the Pennsylvania Department of State Web site.

• Watch out for organizations using names that closely resemble respected charities.

• Never feel pressured into making a donation.

• Ask door-to-door solicitors to show you their identification or credentials.

• Write checks to the charity, not to the company or person collecting the money.

If you have questions or concerns about a consumer issue, or if you believe you have been targeted by a holiday scam, contact the Bureau of Consumer Protection at 1-800-441-2555 or file an online consumer complaint.

Mr. Frederiksen said, "We would rather help consumers avoid problems because it is much more difficult to deal with those problems after the fact."