BOSTON —

Black Friday deals are already out in force, but before you buy anything online, the FBI has a warning: "Cyber criminals are always looking for ways to steal people's money," said James Crowley, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Boston Office.

Crowley said the holidays are an ideal time for scammers to prey on people's generosity and desire to get the best bargains.

Things to watch out for, according to Crowley: pop-up messages on your phone, unsolicited emails with links to deals that seem too good to be true, and brand-name merchandise at very low prices.

"They're probably going to be a scam," he said.

Crowley says to do your research before you plug in your credit card and personal information by checking the vendor's website and online reviews. Also, watch ou

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