The Better Business Bureau (BBB)
has issued an alert to gaming consumers to be wary of scammers while playing
the new Nintendo game Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
Animal Crossing is a social
simulation videogame where you and potentially other game players can create
your own town with human-like animals. A draw of the game is to be able to play
with other players online. It has become a hit, with many Facebook groups exchanging
information about the game.
As a result of its online
popularity, the BBB has received reports of scams related to the game. Scammers,
who play the game, will try to trade real world money for in game funds, particular
characters, or other perks.
The BBB recommends that gamers
following these tips when playing Animal Crossing,
·
Beware of “Real Life” Transactions -
Scammers can and have created listings on eBay or in Facebook groups,
advertising wanted characters or items for sale. Once you pay with your own money,
not in-game currency, the scammer disappears, and you’re left without your
purchased items.
·
Know Your Friends - Set boundaries with
players you interact with online. Only provide travel codes (called DODO codes)
or send “best friend” requests to people you know and trust in real life. The
“best friend” designation gives players a greater ability to make potentially
unwanted changes to your town.
·
Create a Safe Space - If you must invite
a stranger to your island, fence off areas that you don’t want a visitor to
interact with - such as flowers, fruits, and other objects you don’t want
stolen.
If you have someone in your
household or a friend or neighbor who plays Animal Crossing, please pass this
information on to them.
Better Business Bureau:
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