As Black Friday shopping continues across New York, state officials and cybersecurity experts are warning residents about a significant rise in online scams targeting holiday shoppers. Fraudulent websites, fake ads and phishing attempts have increased sharply this year, making it harder for consumers to distinguish real deals from criminal schemes.
With more people shopping online than ever before, scammers are creating sophisticated fake storefronts and posting misleading advertisements on social media. These scams frequently offer extremely low prices on popular items to lure shoppers into entering credit card information or completing fraudulent payments.
Common Tactics Used by Scammers
Security analysts say the most common Black Friday scam methods this year include:
- Fake retail websites that copy the design of well-known brands to trick customers into placing orders that never arrive.
- Phishing emails or text messages claiming to offer exclusive sales or shipping updates. These messages often include links to unsafe pages that steal personal information.
- Counterfeit social media ads promote deals that are not real. Criminals are increasingly using AI-generated text, images, and videos to make their ads look legitimate.
- Unusual price drops that appear far below the typical retail value. Experts note that if a deal looks unrealistic, it is usually a warning sign.
Several cybersecurity firms have reported a major increase in phishing websites and malicious advertisements created specifically for the holiday shopping season.
Why This Shopping Season Is Particularly Risky
Analysts say scammers are benefiting from advancements in artificial intelligence, which allow them to create convincing fake websites in minutes. These sites often use real product photos, familiar logos and realistic checkout pages. As a result, many victims do not realize they have been targeted until charges appear on their bank accounts.
Financial institutions and webistes say customers are also reporting a rise in attempts to access their accounts following online purchases made through unverified websites.
Safety Tips for Holiday Shoppers
Consumer protection agencies recommend several steps to stay safe while shopping online:
- Verify the website address before making a purchase. Look carefully at spelling, design quality, and the payment page.
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or social media messages.
- Type retailer names manually into your browser to ensure you are visiting the correct site.
- Use credit cards instead of debit cards for added fraud protection.
- Enable two-factor authentication on shopping accounts.
- Keep your device software updated and avoid using public WiFi to make purchases.
Experts say shoppers should always take a moment to evaluate a deal before completing a purchase. Rushed decisions often lead to higher risk.
Retailers and Platforms Respond
Major retailers and online marketplaces say they are increasing efforts to detect and remove fraudulent listings. Social media platforms have also announced new security measures to verify seller accounts and flag suspicious activity, though analysts say scammers can still slip through.
Authorities emphasize that while many deals are legitimate, consumers should remain cautious and alert. With careful attention and basic digital safety practices, most scams can be avoided.
