With Black Friday almost here, it’s important all of us are aware of scams that can circle online. Don’t fall victim to the online traps these people set up. Be aware and avoid any loss of funds or personal data.
Black Friday is one of the best times of the year to score great deals—but it’s also a prime time for scammers to take advantage of eager shoppers. With so many deals happening online and in stores, it’s easy to fall for something that seems too good to be true. Here are the most common scams to watch out for this Black Friday and how to protect yourself.
1. Fake online stores
Scammers often set up fake websites that look like legitimate online stores. They advertise massive discounts on popular products to lure you in. Once you pay, the item never arrives, or you get a low-quality counterfeit product instead.
How to avoid it:
- Stick to well-known retailers or brands you trust.
- Check the URL for typos or unusual domain names (e.g., “amaz0n.com” instead of “amazon.com”).
- Look for customer reviews or contact information to confirm the site is legitimate.
2. Phishing emails and texts
You might get emails or texts claiming to be from big retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy. These messages often include fake deals or say there’s an issue with your order. They’ll ask you to click a link and provide personal or payment information.
How to avoid it:
- Don’t click on links in emails or texts unless you’re sure they’re legitimate.
- Go directly to the retailer’s official website to check your order status.
- Watch out for generic greetings like “Dear Customer” and grammar mistakes—these are often signs of a scam.
3. Too-good-to-be-true social media ads
Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are filled with ads for deals during Black Friday. Some of these are legit, but many are scams selling fake or non-existent products.
How to avoid it:
- Research the company before buying. Look up their name with the word “scam” to see if others have been tricked.
- Avoid offers that seem unrealistic, like a brand-new phone for $50.
4. Gift card scams
Scammers might offer you deals that require you to pay with a gift card or send you fake gift card offers. They’ll claim you’ll get a free $100 card for spending $50, but it’s a trick to steal your money or information.
How to avoid it:
- Never pay for anything with a gift card unless it’s directly from a retailer’s official site.
- Be cautious of unsolicited emails or posts offering gift card “bonuses.”
5. Fake delivery notifications
During the holiday shopping season, scammers send fake notifications pretending to be from delivery services like FedEx, UPS, or USPS. These messages may say your package is delayed and ask you to pay a fee or provide personal information to resolve it.
How to avoid it:
- Always track your packages using the retailer’s official website or app.
- Ignore emails or texts asking for payment to release a package.
6. Unsecured public Wi-Fi scams
If you’re shopping in a café or mall using public Wi-Fi, hackers might intercept your information, including credit card details or login credentials.
How to avoid it:
- Avoid entering sensitive information while on public Wi-Fi.
- Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your data when shopping online.
7. Counterfeit products
Some scammers sell fake versions of popular items, especially electronics, fashion items, and toys, at steep discounts. The products might look real in photos, but are often poorly made or don’t work at all.
How to avoid it:
- Be cautious of deals that are significantly cheaper than everywhere else.
- Buy directly from the brand’s website or an authorised retailer.
8. Charity scams
Black Friday kicks off the holiday giving season, and scammers might pose as fake charities asking for donations. They take advantage of people’s generosity to steal money.
How to avoid it:
- Research charities on websites like Charity Navigator or GuideStar before donating.
- Donate directly through a charity’s official website, not through random links or phone calls.
9. Subscription traps
Some “free trials” or “limited-time offers” come with hidden subscription fees. You think you’re paying for one product, but you’re unknowingly signing up for recurring charges.
How to Avoid It:
- Read the fine print before entering payment information.
- Check for automatic renewal policies and cancellation terms.
10. Fake customer support scams
If you search online for customer service numbers, scammers may direct you to fake hotlines. These scammers ask for personal details or payments to “resolve” your issue.
How to avoid it:
- Only use customer service numbers or chat links directly from the retailer’s official website.
Final tips for staying safe
- Use secure payment methods: Stick to credit cards or payment platforms like PayPal for extra fraud protection.
- Monitor your bank statements: Keep an eye on your accounts for any suspicious charges.
- Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.
Shopping on Black Friday can be exciting, but it’s essential to stay cautious. Scammers are getting smarter, but with these tips, you can enjoy the sales without falling for their tricks. Happy (and safe) shopping!
