As Black Friday approaches, consumers are gearing up for the year’s biggest shopping event, with the promise of unbeatable discounts on everything from electronics to fashion. But while many are eager to score deals, a darker side to this retail extravaganza lurks. Cybercriminals are capitalizing on the excitement, turning Black Friday into a prime opportunity for scams and fraudulent activities. This year, it might be time to rename it Black Fraud Day.
While some shoppers are busy hunting for legitimate deals, others are unknowingly walking into traps that could lead to identity theft, financial loss, or worse. From fake online stores to phishing attacks, Black Friday has become a hotbed for fraud. In this article, we’ll break down some of the most common scams you might encounter this Black Friday and provide tips on how to protect yourself from falling victim.
1. Fake “Too Good to Be True” Deals
One of the most prevalent scams during Black Friday is the fake deal. You might see an ad or receive an email offering a product at an unbelievably low price—too good to be true. These deals often lead to fake websites or unavailable products, leaving you without your purchase and potentially with stolen payment details.
How to Avoid This Scam:
- Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Shop only from reputable, well-known retailers.
- Verify that the website is secure (look for “https://” in the URL).
- Check reviews, do some research on the seller, and never buy from an unfamiliar source, especially through email or social media ads.
2. Phishing Attacks and Fake Tracking Links
Phishing scams increase significantly around Black Friday. Fraudsters send out emails or text messages that appear to be from well-known retailers or delivery services. These emails often contain fake tracking numbers or urgent requests for you to click a link. Once clicked, the link can direct you to a fraudulent website designed to steal your personal information or infect your device with malware.
How to Avoid This Scam:
- Always verify the sender’s email address to ensure it’s genuinely from the retailer.
- Never click on links or download attachments from unsolicited emails or texts.
- If you’re expecting a tracking update, go directly to the retailer’s website to check your order status.
- Keep your security software up to date to help detect phishing sites and malware.
3. Fake Online Stores
As more shoppers turn to online shopping, fake e-commerce sites are becoming more common. These sites often mimic popular, trusted retailers and offer massive discounts on items like electronics, clothing, and gadgets. Once you provide your payment information, you may receive counterfeit goods—or nothing at all—and your personal data could be compromised.
How to Avoid This Scam:
- Stick to well-established websites (Amazon, Walmart, Target, etc.).
- Do a quick Google search to check if the site has been flagged as a scam.
- Use tools like Trustpilot, ScamAdviser, or reviews on other independent sites to check the legitimacy of a website.
- Look for secure payment options like PayPal, which offers buyer protection.
4. Counterfeit Products
Whether it’s a luxury handbag, designer clothing, or the latest tech gadget, counterfeit products flood the market during Black Friday. These fake goods are often sold at a discounted price, but they’re poorly made and may not function as promised.
How to Avoid This Scam:
- Be cautious when buying high-end goods from third-party sellers, especially from unknown or less-established websites.
- Research the product and brand to verify authenticity.
- If the price seems too low for a high-end product, it probably isn’t genuine.
- Purchase from authorised retailers or directly from the brand’s website for high-end items.
5. Social Media Scams and “Prize” Offers
Scammers frequently use social media platforms to spread fake deals, contests, and giveaways. They may ask you to click on a link, provide personal details, or even share the scam with your friends. These campaigns often promise incredible prizes but are designed to steal your information or money.
How to Avoid This Scam:
- Verify the legitimacy of social media promotions by checking the official brand’s account or website.
- Avoid sharing or responding to unsolicited prize offers, especially if you haven’t entered any contest.
- Be cautious of giveaways or deals promoted by unknown influencers or unverified accounts.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t engage.
6. Malware and Ransomware Attacks
Cybercriminals also use Black Friday’s high online traffic to exploit vulnerabilities in websites and devices. Some may attempt to infect your device with malware or ransomware, leading to data theft, system disruptions, or extortion demands.
How to Avoid This Scam:
- Never make online purchases on public WiFi, as it increases your exposure to hacking attempts.
- Use strong, unique passwords for each online account and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Regularly update your operating system, web browser, and security software to guard against malware.
- Be cautious when downloading apps or clicking on popup ads while browsing.
Final Thoughts: Shop Smart, Shop Safe
While Black Friday can offer incredible deals, it’s essential to stay vigilant about the scams that tend to flood the market during this time. By taking a few simple precautions—researching sellers, verifying deals, and being cautious about unsolicited emails and social media offers—you can protect yourself from fraud.
Let’s reclaim Black Friday as a time for savvy shopping this holiday season, not scams. Protect your personal information, use secure payment methods, and remember: if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay safe, shop smart, and enjoy the holiday season without falling victim to Black Friday fraud.
About the Author:
Onyedikachi Ugwu is a seasoned cybersecurity professional, mentor, speaker, and passionate writer dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge to navigate the digital world safely. By day, I serve as a Threat Detection and Response Analyst at NormCyber, where I leverage my expertise to combat online threats. In my spare time, I share my insights on various cybersecurity topics.
As a Social Engineering SME, I am well-versed in the tactics used by scammers to manipulate their victims. My goal is to equip readers with the tools to identify and avoid these deceptive schemes, helping them find genuine connections online.
