Black Friday has become one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year, with consumers eager to snap up discounts both in-store and online. However, alongside the genuine bargains comes an increase in fraudulent activity, as scammers exploit the busy shopping season to target unsuspecting shoppers. With reports of scams on the rise, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and protect yourself from falling victim to online fraud this Black Friday.

Why Black Friday Scams Are on the Rise

As online shopping surges, so does the risk of encountering fake websites, phishing emails, and dodgy offers designed to trick you into sharing personal information or parting with your hard-earned money. Fraudsters take advantage of the heightened demand, creating a sense of urgency with “limited-time” offers that seem too good to be true. From counterfeit products to phishing scams, the tactics used by cyber criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Recent warnings have highlighted the need for shoppers to be cautious during the Black Friday period. While legitimate retailers offer genuine deals, it’s easy to get caught out if you’re not careful. Scammers are skilled at creating fake websites that mimic well-known brands, and social media platforms are often flooded with bogus adverts promising massive discounts on popular items.

Common Black Friday Scams to Watch Out For

Here are some of the most common scams to be aware of this Black Friday:

1. Fake Websites: Fraudsters often create counterfeit websites that look identical to reputable retailers. These sites may advertise deals that are too good to miss, encouraging you to make a purchase without verifying the website's authenticity. Once you’ve made a payment, you might never receive the product, or worse, your financial information could be compromised.

2. Phishing Emails: Phishing is a tactic used by scammers to steal your personal information, such as login credentials or credit card details. During Black Friday, you might receive emails that look like they’re from trusted brands, urging you to click on a link or download an attachment to claim a special offer. These links often lead to malicious websites designed to harvest your data.

3. Counterfeit Goods: With popular products in high demand, scammers often sell fake or counterfeit goods at tempting prices. These items are usually of poor quality and may not meet safety standards. Buying from unofficial sources could leave you with a substandard product, or you might not receive anything at all.

4. Social Media Scams: Social media platforms are frequently used by fraudsters to promote fake deals. You might come across advertisements that appear to be from well-known retailers, but clicking on the link could lead you to a phishing site or a fake online store. Be wary of deals advertised through unofficial social media accounts.

   
   

How to Stay Safe While Shopping This Black Friday

To protect yourself and make the most of the Black Friday deals without falling victim to fraud, consider these key safety tips:

1. Shop with Reputable Retailers: Stick to well-known and trusted retailers when shopping online. If you come across a great deal from a brand you’re unfamiliar with, do some research before making a purchase. Look for customer reviews, contact information, and return policies to ensure the retailer is legitimate.

2. Check the Website’s Security: Before entering any personal or payment details, make sure the website is secure. Look for a padlock symbol in the address bar and ensure the web address starts with “https.” Avoid entering sensitive information on sites that lack these security indicators.

3. Beware of Unsolicited Emails and Messages: If you receive an email or message with an offer that sounds too good to be true, exercise caution. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, and go directly to the retailer’s official website by typing the address into your browser.

4. Use Secure Payment Methods: Credit cards and secure payment platforms, such as PayPal, offer greater protection against fraud compared to bank transfers or debit cards. If possible, use a credit card when shopping online, as you may be able to claim a refund if something goes wrong.

5. Monitor Your Bank Statements: Keep an eye on your bank statements during and after Black Friday. If you notice any unauthorised transactions, report them to your bank immediately. Quick action can help prevent further fraudulent activity.

6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Many online retailers offer two-factor authentication for added security. Enabling 2FA requires you to provide a second piece of information, such as a code sent to your phone, before completing a purchase. This extra step can help protect your accounts from being accessed by fraudsters.

   
   

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a Black Friday scam, it’s essential to act quickly:

• Contact Your Bank: If you’ve provided payment details to a fraudulent site, inform your bank as soon as possible. They may be able to stop the payment or help you recover your funds.

• Report the Scam: Report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre. This helps authorities track and investigate scams, potentially preventing others from being targeted.

• Change Your Passwords: If you suspect that your login details have been compromised, change your passwords immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for each account, and consider using a password manager to keep them secure.

A Safer Black Friday Shopping Experience

Black Friday is an excellent opportunity to grab some great deals, but it’s essential to stay alert and take precautions to protect yourself from fraud. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the shopping season without falling prey to scammers.

At the South West Cyber Resilience Centre, we are dedicated to helping individuals and businesses stay secure in an increasingly digital world. For more advice on how to protect yourself from online scams and cyber threats, visit our blog and follow our social media channels for the latest updates.