Attorney General Rob McKenna offers some tips to shop smart and avoid rip offs this holiday season.

Plan your spending Create a budget before you hit the stores. This reduces the chance of overspending on useless, add-on items that few would want or use.

Don’t give gift cards unless... Unredeemed gift cards are like a “donation” to a big-box retailer. And history has shown that many, many of the cards go unredeemed. Don’t give one unless you know the recipient is likely to use it. Also, some gift cards expire or collect a fine if the redeemer waits too long. Better ideas: give cash in a fancy card, a day’s yardwork, take the person to lunch or bake them some goodies.

Use credit cards, not debit cards, on line Most credit cards offer some type of fraud protection, as long as you report the fraud immediately. Debit cards may not. Also your debit card is linked directly to your checking account. Fraudsters who tap your card and account number can leave you high and dry.

Use secure websites for online shopping One clue about which websites are safe and which aren’t is to look for “https” in the web address and a little yellow padlock in the browser bar. Also, don’t make purchases over a free wifi hot spot, which can be scanned by scammers to capture your passwords and personal information.

Free trial offers aren’t so free A free trial period for some type of service, such as a video game service, often comes with the purchase of electronics. These vendors often will automatically begin charging your credit card if you don’t expressly call to cancel the service after the trial period. Beware.

Just say ‘no’ to extended service plans Stores make big profits off these plans, which Consumer Reports magazine considers unnecessary. Most products are reliable, rendering the extra warranty unnecessary.

Keep receipts and packaging These make it easier to return unwanted or defective gifts. Some smart phone apps allow you to scan receipts and other items. It’s also a good idea to include a gift receipt — which lists the item, but not its price — with a gift. Most retailers offer them.

— Christine Pratt, World staff