Black Friday Fraud & Cyber Monday Scams: How to protect yourself
Written by Vikki Bourner, on 28 Nov, 2024It’s that time of year again, that we Brits don’t fully understand but embrace anyway because we love a bargain-Black Friday and Cyber Monday! However, as shoppers hunt for bargains, scammers are working overtime to trick unsuspecting consumers. Black Friday fraud is a growing concern, costing millions each year. In this guide, we’ll explore common scams, how to spot warning signs, and practical tips to stay safe.
What is Black Friday fraud?
Black Friday fraud refers to scams targeting shoppers during the holiday sales period. Scammers use fake websites, phishing emails, and deceptive offers to steal money or personal information. According to Action Fraud, Brits lost an eye-watering £2.5 million to online shopping scams during Black Friday and Cyber Monday in 2021. It was an average of nearly £600 per victim. People reported making purchases on Facebook, eBay and Gumtree and did not receive items in the post.
Common Black Friday scams to watch out for
Fake online stores
Scammers create fake websites that mimic popular retailers. These sites offer “too good to be true” deals but deliver counterfeit goods—or nothing at all.
Red flags:
- URLs with misspellings or extra characters (e.g., amaz0n.com).
- No secure padlock symbol (🔒) in the browser address bar.
- Limited contact information or fake customer reviews.
Phishing emails & texts
Fraudsters send emails or messages claiming you’ve won a deal or need to verify your account. These often link to fake websites designed to steal your login details or financial information.
Red flags:
- Urgent language like “Act now to avoid losing your offer!”
- Generic greetings such as “Dear Customer.”
- Attachments or links with suspicious file names.
Social media ads
Scam ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok lure shoppers with unbeatable deals on high-demand products. These ads often redirect to fraudulent websites.
Red flags:
- Overly generous discounts on luxury items.
- Poor grammar in ad descriptions.
- No customer feedback on the page.
According to Barclays, over 72% of purchase scams in 2023 originated on social media platforms with an average claim of more than £700.
Gift card scams
Some scammers trick shoppers into paying with gift cards, which are almost impossible to trace.
Red flags:
- Requests to pay using gift cards instead of secure payment methods.
- Unusual pressure to complete the transaction quickly.
How to protect yourself from Black Friday fraud
- Shop with trusted retailers
Stick to reputable stores and check website URLs carefully. Bookmark official websites to avoid landing on fake ones. - Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Use 2FA on your accounts for an extra layer of protection. Even if scammers get your password, they’ll need a second code to access your account. - Verify deals before buying
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Research prices across different websites to confirm authenticity. - Use secure payment methods
Pay with a credit card or services like PayPal, which offer fraud protection. Avoid bank transfers or payments via gift cards. - Update your devices
Ensure your smartphone, laptop, and apps have the latest security updates to guard against malware. - Be cautious on social media
If you see a deal on Facebook or Instagram, verify the seller’s credibility by checking reviews and feedback. Avoid clicking on links directly from ads.
What to do if you get scammed
- Report the scam
Contact Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 or report online via their website. - Inform your bank
If you’ve shared financial details, alert your bank immediately to freeze accounts or stop transactions. - Change your passwords
Update passwords for all affected accounts, especially if you reused the same one. - Check for identity theft
Monitor your credit score using services like Credit Karma or Experian and look for unusual activity, such as loans or accounts opened in your name.
What about Cyber Monday scams?
Cyber Monday, the online shopping counterpart to Black Friday, is another peak time for fraud. Scams often mirror those on Black Friday, but cybercriminals may also exploit tech-related vulnerabilities, such as hacking unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Stay safe by:
- Avoiding public Wi-Fi for online purchases.
- Using VPNs for extra security.
- Checking for website security measures like HTTPS.
FAQs: Black Friday & Cyber Monday scams
What’s the secret behind Black Friday?
Black Friday began in the U.S. as a post-Thanksgiving shopping day. The term was first used in the 1950s. In 2010, Amazon introduced Black Friday to the UK. Asda became the first UK retailer to host an in-store Black Friday event in 2013.
Is Black Friday a real deal or a con?
Many deals are genuine, but some are misleading. Retailers sometimes inflate prices before applying discounts. Always do your research, shop around and buy only what you need.
What is Cyber Monday famous for?
Cyber Monday focuses on online sales and tech deals. It originated to encourage e-commerce purchases. The US started Cyber Monday in 2005 to promote online retail. In the 2010s UK retailers embraced Cyber Monday to expand their online presence.
What is the most common Black Friday scam?
The most common scam during Black Friday involves fake online stores. These websites often mimic trusted retailers and lure customers with incredible deals, only to steal payment details or deliver counterfeit goods.
How do I check if a website is secure?
Look for a padlock symbol (🔒) in the address bar and ensure the URL starts with “https.” Avoid websites with unusual domain names or poor-quality designs.
Are public Wi-Fi networks safe for shopping?
No, public Wi-Fi networks are vulnerable to hackers who can intercept your data. Use a VPN or your mobile data connection for secure online shopping.
What should I do if I accidentally clicked on a phishing link?
Immediately disconnect from the internet, scan your device for malware, and change your passwords. If you entered sensitive details, contact your bank and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
Why do scammers ask for gift card payments?
Gift card payments are almost impossible to trace, making it difficult for victims to recover their money. Legitimate retailers never ask for gift cards as payment methods.
Final thoughts
Black Friday fraud and Cyber Monday scams are real threats, but staying informed is your best defence. By recognising warning signs, shopping cautiously, and reporting scams, you can enjoy the holiday deals without worry.
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