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As Black Friday approaches on November 29, eager shoppers worldwide are preparing to snag the best deals on everything from electronics to home goods. But while retailers are set to offer major discounts, cybercriminals and scammers are also gearing up to exploit this high-traffic shopping event.

Experts warn that Black Friday’s heightened shopping frenzy makes consumers more susceptible to scams, with fraudsters deploying increasingly sophisticated tactics. Here are the top scams to watch out for and tips to avoid falling victim to them.

1.“You’ve Won” Notifications and Prize Scams

Scammers know that Black Friday brings excitement, so they use “winning notifications” or “exclusive prize” messages to lure consumers. These often claim that you’ve won a prize, like a gift card or a new smartphone, as part of a Black Friday promotion. To claim the “prize,” scammers ask for personal information or payment for “shipping fees,” putting victims at risk of identity theft or monetary loss.

Real promotions from legitimate retailers never ask for payment to claim prizes. If you receive one of these messages, delete it. Only engage with official websites or apps to participate in genuine promotions.

2.Fake Delivery Notifications

Scammers often send texts or emails mimicking legitimate delivery alerts, telling consumers their package couldn’t be delivered or needs address confirmation. Clicking on these links may lead to phishing sites that capture sensitive information or even install malware on devices.

To verify delivery statuses, go directly to the retailer’s official website or app, where you can track your orders safely. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages and emails, especially those that look unusual.

3.Counterfeit Products and Fake Deals

One of the most common scams is the sale of counterfeit goods or poor-quality products at seemingly irresistible prices. Fraudsters set up fake listings on e-commerce platforms and social media, often under the guise of well-known brands. These items may look legitimate in photos, but they’re often made cheaply and lack proper warranties.

 Before making any purchase, check the seller’s ratings, read verified reviews, and be wary of deals that seem “too good to be true.” Stick to official retailer sites and avoid unknown third-party sellers offering unusually high discounts.

4. Phishing Emails and Texts

Phishing emails and texts are another popular tactic for Black Friday scammers. These messages often appear to come from major retailers and may claim that there’s an issue with your recent order or offer a time-sensitive discount. These emails often link to fake sites designed to steal your login credentials or credit card information.

 Be cautious of emails with spelling errors, generic greetings, or unfamiliar sender addresses. Rather than clicking links in emails, go directly to the retailer’s official website or app to verify the offer or check on any issues.

5. Fake Customer Service Representatives

Some scammers pose as customer service agents from major companies like Amazon, contacting consumers via phone calls, emails, or online chats. They may claim there’s an issue with your account or recent order, then ask for personal information or payment details. In extreme cases, they may request remote access to your device, posing a serious security risk.

 Legitimate customer service representatives will never ask for your password, credit card number, or remote access to your device. If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and contact the company directly using the official contact information on its website.

Mike Epifani, Brand Content Manager at Bonus.com says: “Scams are becoming more advanced, with fraudsters using increasingly sophisticated techniques to trick customers this Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

“Consumers are eager to find the best discounts during Black Friday. This heightened urgency makes people less cautious and more likely to click on links or enter personal information without checking the source, increasing vulnerability to scams.” Black Friday sees a major spike in both shopping and scam activities, with a 22% increase in fraud losses reported.”

”With the volume of shoppers comes a bigger appeal for scammers to prey on customers. However, there are several things’ shoppers can do to keep their money and personal information safe.”

How to Stay Safe

With the growing sophistication of online scams, staying alert is key. Here are additional tips to ensure your Black Friday shopping experience is secure:

Use Secure Payment Methods: Pay with a credit card or secure payment platform like PayPal, which often provide fraud protection. Update Software and Security: Ensure your devices and apps are up to date, as these updates often include security improvements. Use Strong Passwords: For any online accounts, use strong, unique passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security. Be Skeptical of “Too Good to Be True” Deals: Overly generous discounts or giveaways are often red flags for scams.

As you prepare for the holiday shopping season, being cautious can help you avoid falling victim to these scams. By staying aware of common tactics, shoppers can make their purchases safely and keep the focus on holiday cheer.