It’s back-to-school time and every parent I know of school-aged children is scouring lists provided by schools to purchase items for their kids’ first day.

It is easy and convenient to purchase these items online, but online shopping poses greater risks of fraud than shopping in retail stores.

Because of that, the Federal Trade Commission has issued a Consumer Alert to help avoid fraud and scams with online shopping. This year, as you are buying those school supplies, if you are buying them online, take a look at the FTC’s tips on how to avoid scams and save money.