It’s Black Friday for hackers too – so watch out for these scams

As the holiday shopping season kicks into high gear, consumers around the world are eagerly seeking out the best Black Friday deals and discounts. However, it’s crucial to remember that this shopping frenzy isn’t limited to legitimate shoppers; cybercriminals are also gearing up for what they consider “Black Friday for hackers.” This is the time when they unleash a barrage of scams and cyberattacks to exploit the heightened online activity and vulnerabilities of unsuspecting shoppers. To ensure a safe and secure Black Friday shopping experience, it’s essential to be vigilant and watch out for these common scams:

1. Phishing Emails: Be wary of unsolicited emails that appear to offer incredible Black Friday deals or urgent alerts about your accounts. Cybercriminals often use phishing emails to trick you into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card details. Always verify the sender’s legitimacy before clicking on any links or providing personal information.
2. Fake Retailer Websites: Scammers frequently create counterfeit websites that closely mimic legitimate online stores, complete with fake Black Friday deals. Double-check the website’s URL for authenticity, look for the “https://” prefix, and ensure it matches the retailer’s official domain. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, as these often lead to fraudulent sites.
3. Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks: Public Wi-Fi networks are notorious for their security vulnerabilities. Avoid shopping on unsecured public Wi-Fi, as cybercriminals can intercept your data. If you must shop on the go, use a trusted virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection and protect your information.
4. Social Media Scams: Be cautious of enticing offers and links on social media platforms promising unbeatable Black Friday bargains. Scammers often create fake accounts or ads to lure users into providing personal information or making purchases on fraudulent websites. Stick to official accounts and websites of reputable retailers.
5. Gift Card Scams: Beware of requests for payment in the form of gift cards. Scammers may pose as customer support representatives or even impersonate family members in distress, asking you to buy gift cards and share the card codes. Legitimate organizations and individuals rarely request payment in this manner.
6. Delivery Phishing Scams: As online shopping activity surges during the holiday season, you may receive fake delivery notifications via email or text. These messages often contain malicious links or attachments. Always verify delivery notifications by tracking your orders directly on the retailer’s official website or app.
7. Tech Support Scams: Watch out for unsolicited phone calls or pop-up messages claiming to be from tech support. Scammers may try to convince you that your device is infected or compromised. Never provide remote access to your device or financial information to unknown callers.
8. Charity Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited requests for donations, especially if the charity is unfamiliar. Verify the legitimacy of charitable organizations before contributing. Reputable charities offer multiple ways to donate, and they won’t pressure you into giving immediately.
9. Identity Theft: Protect your personal information and financial details by using strong, unique passwords for online accounts. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible and regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
10. Review and Rating Manipulation: Some sellers engage in fraudulent practices by creating fake reviews and ratings to boost their products’ credibility. Approach online reviews with skepticism, and look for patterns of suspicious activity, such as numerous similar positive reviews posted within a short timeframe.

In conclusion, while Black Friday offers exciting opportunities for savings, it’s also a prime time for cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting shoppers. To safeguard your personal and financial information during the holiday shopping season, stay vigilant, employ secure online practices, and verify the legitimacy of retailers and offers. Remember that if a deal seems too good to be true, it’s crucial to exercise caution and verify its authenticity before taking any action. Cybersecurity awareness is your best defense against Black Friday scams.