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This article was updated on July 23, 2025, to update statistics, add new, relevant information, and fix broken links.
Though its role in the classroom will continue to evolve, technology is now a critical component of education. If you're shopping for technology for the upcoming school year, BBB has tips to help.
What you'll learn:
- What trends are indicated by market research
- How to avoid scams when shopping for tech supplies
Market research firm Deloitte details how educational shifts influence consumer shopping habits. In 2025, Deloitte reports that tech products will make up 26% of the share of total spending on back-to-school shopping.
With this in mind, scammers may target shoppers with phony deals, enticing ads, and attractive but fake websites. Savvy online shopping is necessary to ensure you don't fall prey to a scam.
BBB offers these tips for buying tech products ahead of the new school year:
- Shop with familiar retailers. Laptops, tablets, and other tech accessories can be a significant investment. Shop with businesses you know and trust to ensure you get a quality product and good customer service. Search BBB.org to find BBB Accredited Businesses.
- Watch out for impostors. Impostor scams are increasingly common when it comes to online shopping. Fraudsters may use the name, logo, and other characteristics of well-known brands to create lookalike websites and fake social media ads. Closely examine the website to verify they are who they are.
- Approach significantly low prices with caution. Low prices and short-term sales could signal you’ve encountered a scam. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Some companies rarely offer sales. Do more research if a company that rarely discounts products offers a huge sale. The products may be used or refurbished, or the website could be fake.
- Know what you’re shopping for. Set a budget, identify what capabilities will benefit your student, and compare your options. Then, shop around for a reliable seller. Researching the best product for your needs will help you avoid scams and buyer's remorse.
- Ensure you know who the seller is. Some big box retailers allow third-party sellers to list items on their sites, and those items can be hard to distinguish from the rest. Read all the fine print to ensure you’re comfortable with the seller.
- Finish your shopping early. Supply shortages are possible, especially as many consumers begin shopping for the same products. Do your shopping now to avoid paying higher prices or falling victim to a scam.
For more information
Learn more about avoiding scams online: BBB Tip: Smart Shopping Online.
Get your school year off to a strong start with BBB's Back-to-School Shopping Tips.
Visit BBB's Back to School HQ for more resources.
Have you experienced a scam? Search and report scams at BBB.org/ScamTracker.