JAMAICA- Consumers are encouraged to reduce the use of cash during the holiday season

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Consumers are encouraged to strategize and reduce their use of cash during the holiday season and beyond.

The advice comes from the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) in light of increased complaints of challenges in accessing cash at automated banking machines (ABMs).

According to Director of Communications Latoya Halstead, those who can should consider online transactions for bill payments and other expenses.

“Many persons are going to be trying to access cash. It is going to be an issue. So, it would help if you prepared because you have no control regarding the outlets where cash is or is not,” she said.

The Director has also urged individuals who must use AMBs to pay keen attention to their surroundings, as persons with nefarious intentions may use it as an opportunity to attack ABM users.

Halstead said people must also be prudent when shopping this Yuletide season to avoid overspending.

“Be very cautious. Christmas is not the be-all and end-all of everything. There is a new year coming. You have many more bills to pay, and you have to live through January. So, do not buy what you want but rather what you need,” she said.

The CAC is an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce. Its role is to enforce the Consumer Protection Act and facilitate ethical behavior between vendors and consumers in the marketplace.

The Director has also urged individuals who must use AMBs to pay keen attention to their surroundings, as persons with nefarious intentions may use it as an opportunity to attack ABM users.

Halstead said people must also be prudent when shopping this Yuletide season to avoid overspending.

“Be very cautious. Christmas is not the be-all and end-all of everything. There is a new year coming. You have many more bills to pay, and you have to live through January. So, do not buy what you want but rather what you need,” she said.

The CAC is an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce. Its role is to enforce the Consumer Protection Act and facilitate ethical behavior between vendors and consumers in the marketplace.