Black Friday is a much-awaited sales period but also a prime opportunity for online scams. Every year, cybercriminals exploit the influx of shoppers by orchestrating sophisticated techniques designed to deceive consumers.
In this article, we offer you the best tips to spot scams and safeguard yourself during your Black Friday online shopping experience.
What are the most common types of scams during Black Friday?
Here are the scams most commonly encountered during Black Friday and the indicators to watch out for to avoid them.
1. Fake online shopping sites
Fake online shopping sites increase every year, imitating legitimate stores to trick consumers into providing their personal or banking information.
- Warning signs to look for:
- Suspicious URL: carefully check the site’s address; even a single altered character could indicate a fraudulent imitation.
- Absence of legal notice: a secure site displays clear legal notices and return conditions. Their absence is a red flag.
- Extremely low prices: prices that appear too good to be true are often a trap; verify other stores to see if the discount is realistic.
2. False promotions and misleading discounts
Some promotional offers are either fictitious or exaggerated to urge purchases, providing no genuine advantage to the buyer.
- How to verify a real promotion?
- Compare prices: before purchasing, check several sites or use price tracking platforms to ensure the promotion is genuine.
- Read consumer reviews: a trustworthy seller will have verifiable positive reviews. Take the time to read recent testimonials.
- Check the reputation of the online store: larger platforms or well-known sites are generally safer. Do some research to avoid dubious sellers.
3. Phishing via SMS, email, and telephone
Phishing is a method scammers use to obtain your personal information by pretending to be an official site or service.
- Common phishing techniques:
- SMS or emails with suspicious links: be wary of shortened links or domains that seem unusual, often found in phishing emails.
- Fake delivery or order messages: cybercriminals send notifications for non-existent orders to steal your banking information.
- Calls claiming to be customer service: they may contact you claiming to be an after-sales service to resolve a fictitious issue and ask for your sensitive information.
4. Fake customer service and carrier services
Fake after-sales services (SAV) or delivery services often pretended to be linked to a purchase you’ve made to extract information or extra payments.
- Overcharged number scams:
- Calls or SMS asking to call back a paid number: messages requesting you to call back an overcharged number for delivery information are often fraudulent.
- Messages offering parcel tracking in exchange for banking data: scammers might send a fake parcel tracking link to tempt you into providing your banking data.
How to protect yourself from scams during Black Friday?
The 7 Tips to Limit Cyber Scams
- Be wary of overly generous promotions: impressive discounts might seem enticing, but if an offer appears too good to be true, it’s likely a scam. Check the prices offered by other sellers to assess the offer’s reliability.
- Take your time before clicking or purchasing: scammers often create a sense of urgency using countdown clocks to prompt hasty decisions. Don’t be swayed by these pressure tactics.
- Avoid calling back overcharged numbers: if you receive a message asking to call back an unknown number, always verify its origin. Use only official numbers of merchants or carriers, which you can find on their websites.
- Check the sender’s address: even a single altered character can signify a fake email from a scammer. Carefully inspect each address before clicking any link or providing information.
- Protect your personal and banking information: share your data with caution. Never provide your bank details over the phone or email without ensuring the interlocutor’s security.
- Use unique passwords: choose different and secure passwords for each site. Thus, if a password is compromised, it won’t affect your other accounts.
- Verify site authenticity: before completing a purchase, take a few moments to check the reputation of the merchant site. Look at customer feedback and conduct a quick search to ensure the site’s trustworthiness.
By following these security tips, you can enjoy Black Friday while protecting your information and avoiding the common traps of cyber scammers.
What to do in case of a cyber scam?
Despite all precautions, some buyers may fall victim to a cyber scam. If you believe you have been a victim of online fraud, follow these steps to report the scam and seek assistance.
Report Online Scams
If faced with proven or suspected fraud, here are the actions to take to protect your data and avoid further consequences:
- Visit internet-signalement.gouv.fr: This platform allows you to file an official report for online scams. It helps authorities identify and track fraudulent activities.
- Call Info-Escroqueries at 0 805 805 817: This toll-free number, available in France, is dedicated to providing advice and assistance in cases of fraud. Advisors can guide you on the steps to take to minimize damage.
- Check out the platform Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr: This national platform offers resources for victims of cybercrime. You can find personalized advice and links to specialized service providers who can help strengthen your data security.
