Scammers Have Their Sights on Unsuspecting Black Friday and Cyber Monday Holiday Shoppers
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Scammers Have Their Sights on Unsuspecting Black Friday and Cyber Monday Holiday Shoppers

Scammers are very aware that this time of year is full of impulse buys and the search for hard-to-find hot items

November 10, 2024

Black Friday and Cyber Monday bring record shopping traffic in North Carolina and nationwide. Scammers exploit this frenzy with fake sites, apps, and schemes to steal your money and personal data. Before you click a deal or tap to pay, learn how to spot and avoid common holiday shopping fraud tactics.

Impostor Websites

Scammers create look-alike storefronts with URLs one letter off the real retailer’s domain. They advertise doorbusters far below market value to lure shoppers. Before you purchase, check the web address closely, look for HTTPS in the address bar, and verify contact information. Call the retailer using its official number, never the one on a suspicious site—to confirm the deal.

Malicious Mobile Apps

Fake shopping apps appear in official app stores and via text message links. They promise early access to limited-edition items. Installing one may infect your device with malware that steals passwords or credit card data. Only download retailer apps you find by searching the store for the brand name and checking publisher details and user reviews.

Hidden Fees and Fine Print

Some sites tack on unauthorized subscription fees, fake restocking charges, or recurring “membership” costs buried in the fine print. Always scroll to read terms and conditions before completing an order. Look for phrases like “automatic renewal” and “restocking fee” and compare final total to the advertised price.

Out-of-Stock Bait and Prepayment Scams

Scammers prey on shoppers seeking sold-out hot items, game consoles, sneakers, phones—by offering a “limited restock” at a steep discount. They take your payment and never deliver. If an item is out of stock everywhere else, buying it from an unknown seller is a red flag. Stick to official retailer sites or authorized resellers.

Fake Delivery Alerts

Holiday volume triggers more shipping notifications. Scammers send texts or emails claiming a delivery failed and ask you to click a link or provide payment to reschedule. If you’re not expecting a package, delete the alert. If you are, log in to the carrier’s official site, USPS, UPS, FedEx—or contact the sender directly rather than using the link provided.

Gift Card Scams

Scammers demand payment via gift cards for “guaranteed holiday savings” or “limited VIP access.” Legitimate retailers never require gift cards for purchases or refunds. Buying discounted gift cards online is risky, many are counterfeit, deactivated, or already drained. Only purchase gift cards in person at trusted stores.

Malicious Attachments and Links

Emails from retailers rarely include attachments. Scammers send holiday-themed PDFs or spreadsheets claiming to contain coupons or gift registries. Opening them can install ransomware. Never open attachments from unknown senders. Verify any offer by visiting the retailer’s website yourself.

“Secret Santa” and Pyramid Schemes

Chain messages promise you’ll receive free gifts if you forward them to friends or send a small gift to someone unknown. These pyramid schemes are illegal and often harvest your contacts or payment information. Don’t participate in unsolicited gift-exchange emails or social media posts.

Fraudulent Classified Ads

Seasonal classifieds for furniture electronics or limited holiday rentals spike. Scammers list high-end items at rock-bottom prices and ask for deposits via wire transfer or prepaid cards. Always meet sellers in a public place, inspect items in person, and pay with a traceable method like a credit card.

North Carolina Shopping Safety Tips

  • Use Official Apps and Sites: Bookmark retailer websites rather than following links from emails or ads.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Protect your shopping and payment accounts with SMS or app-based verification.
  • Monitor Bank Statements: Review transactions daily during peak shopping season for unauthorized charges.
  • Secure Home Deliveries: Use in-store pickup or locked parcel lockers to prevent package theft.
  • Report Scams: Call the North Carolina Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at (919) 814-5400 or file online if you suspect fraud.

By remaining vigilant, double-checking URLs, avoiding unknown apps, and verifying delivery notifications—you can enjoy holiday deals without falling victim to scammers this Black Friday and Cyber Monday.