Shopping
Seven tricks to avoid Black Friday scams: 2024 could be the most dangerous
With Thanksgiving planning already nearing completion, and Christmas just around the corner, the last thing you’ll want is to be a victim of a sales scam.
Black Friday is the ultimate shopping frenzy, with millions hunting for deals both in-store and online. But amidst the excitement, scammers are equally active, ready to exploit eager shoppers. Protecting yourself from fraud is as essential as finding the best discounts.
Given that the single day has now snowballed into a weekend or more, here are seven practical ways to avoid Black Friday scams and shop with confidence.
Take these steps and stay financially safe for Black Friday
1. Shop only on trusted websites
Scammers create fake websites that mimic legitimate retailers. These sites can steal your personal information or deliver counterfeit goods. Before making a purchase:
- Look for “https://” in the URL
- Double-check the domain name for slight misspellings (e.g., “Amaz0n” instead of “Amazon”)
- Stick to well-known retailers or verified marketplaces
2. Avoid too-good-to-be-true deals
Unbelievably low prices or “exclusive” offers shared via email or social media are red flags. Scammers lure shoppers with deals that seem irresistible but are designed to steal payment information.
- Research average prices for items you’re targeting to spot unrealistic discounts
- Verify deals directly on the retailer’s official website
3. Be wary of phishing emails and texts
Fraudulent emails and text messages are common during Black Friday. These messages often appear to be from popular retailers, promising limited-time offers or requiring you to “verify your account.”
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages
- Hover over email links to see the real URL before clicking
- Never provide sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers via email
4. Use secure payment methods
Credit cards and secure payment platforms (e.g., PayPal) offer better fraud protection than debit cards or direct bank transfers. If a seller requests payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency, it’s a scam.
- Enable fraud alerts and monitor your statements for unauthorized transactions
- Avoid saving payment details on unfamiliar websites
5. Verify social media advertisements
Social media platforms are flooded with ads during Black Friday, many from unverified sellers. Scammers use enticing images and testimonials to trick shoppers.
- Check the retailer’s official profile and reviews before buying
- Use “Google Reverse Image Search” to see if the advertised product photos are stolen from legitimate sites
6. Update your security software
Cyberattacks spike during shopping events, with hackers deploying malware and spyware to access your devices.
- Install the latest antivirus software on your devices
- Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi networks unless using a VPN for secure browsing
- Regularly update your device’s operating system to patch vulnerabilities
7. Check return policies
Scammers often sell products with non-existent or bogus return policies. Even legitimate sites may impose stricter policies during sales.
- Read the return and refund policy carefully before buying
- Avoid sellers with vague or non-transparent terms
Black Friday can be a fantastic time to snag deals, but don’t let the rush to save money compromise your safety. By shopping on trusted platforms, avoiding suspicious offers, and securing your payment information, you can steer clear of scams and focus on scoring the deals you deserve. Stay alert, shop smart, and enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind!
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