Black Friday is a national shopping holiday, but because of COVID-19, it looks a lot different this year.

Some retailers started sales weeks ago and will soon wrap up, and for the first time in years, most retailers were not open on Thanksgiving Day. 

Because sales are underway, experts say if you want a specific gift, order it online now before they run out. Apps are a good way to help you keep track of sales on hot items.

Also, it’s important to be aware of hoaxes on Cyber Monday and holiday sales. If they seem too good to be true, think twice about putting in credit card information.

State Attorney General Ashley Moody just released her “Holiday Consumer Protection Guide” with some helpful information on keeping shoppers safe this holiday season.