With Black Friday just a day away (Nov 28) and Cyber Monday on December 1, holiday shoppers in the US and beyond are hunting for deals. But this peak season also draws scammers looking to hijack your hard-earned cash. Karina Mitchell, a cybersecurity analyst, outlines the biggest threats and how to shop smart.
Why Scammers Strike Now
This time of year sees a surge in transaction volume and deal-hungry shoppers, creating cover for fraudsters. Industry reports show fraud attempts spike by as much as 30% during the holiday window, with phishing schemes and fake storefronts on the rise.
Top Holiday Shopping Scams
- Phishing Emails and Fake Alerts: Scammers send emails mimicking big retailers, urging you to click malicious links for “exclusive” deals.
- Counterfeit Websites: Look-alike sites offer rock-bottom prices but vanish after you enter payment details.
- Social Media Giveaways: Fake contests and “too-good-to-be-true” freebies appear in ads and posts, leading to malware or data theft.
- Imposter Customer Support: Fraudsters posing as support agents over chat or phone request payment to “resolve” shipping or account issues.
5 Tips to Shop Safely
- Verify URLs: Always check the web address for typos and use sites with “https://”.
- Use Secure Payments: Opt for credit cards or trusted digital wallets that offer fraud protection.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra security layer for your accounts.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Shop on a private network or use a VPN.
- Monitor Statements: Review your bank activity daily to spot and report unauthorized charges fast.
By staying alert and following these simple steps, you can enjoy the deals without falling prey to scams. Happy (and safe) shopping!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
