PORTLAND, OR -- You’ve heard of the 12 DAYS of Christmas.  But, the Oregon Better Business Bureau wants you thinking about the 12 SCHEMES of Christmas.  Sophie Dichter says one of the more common is one involving "grandkids" calling to say they’re stranded and need money.  Dichter says one feature of that scheme is the grandparent saying grandchild's name, when the scammer had no idea who the grandkids are. 

Dichter adds, don’t trust people showing up on your doorstep asking for donations from groups like The Red Cross. If you want to give to a non-profit organization, make sure checks are written out to the official organization, not the person standing at your door.  Also on the scam list: puppy scams, malware e-cards, stolen gift cards and travel scams.  For a complete list of scams to watch for, visit the BBB's website.