Consumers may receive fake emails, direct messages with offers that are too good to be true, or even malicious links on social media As another Black Friday approaches, expectations are growing for big discounts and special promotions, both in physical stores and online. However, the excitement for bargains is accompanied by an increase in digital scams, as cybercriminals take advantage of the volume of transactions and the urgency of buyers to launch fraudulent campaigns.
Top Black Friday scams
One of the most common scams on Black Friday is the sending of phishing messages, which simulate communications from real companies but seek to steal personal or financial data. Consumers may receive fake emails, direct messages with offers that are too good to be true, or even malicious links on social media that redirect them to pages where confidential information is stolen. In addition, scammers also duplicate authentic store websites, copying content and appearance to deceive unsuspecting users. From these fake pages, they not only capture money from non-existent purchases, but also access critical data such as credit card numbers or bank passwords.
How to avoid online fraud during Black Friday
To avoid online fraud during Black Friday, it is essential to follow a series of important precautions to protect your personal data and shop safely.
- Compare prices and product features: Do not proceed with the purchase if the product is out of stock or if the discount seems unrealistic compared to other shops.
- Check the terms and conditions of promotions: Carefully read the limits, expiry dates and restrictions of offers, paying particular attention to credit card usage limits or pre-sale conditions.
- Only use reliable and secure websites: Access shops through their official websites, look for the padlock symbol in the address bar and check the seller’s reputation.
- Protect your personal data and payment methods: only share the information that is strictly necessary and do not enter passwords that are not part of the formal payment process.
- Keep your receipts and check the return policies: keep your invoices or receipts and read the shipping and return conditions to manage any complaints in case of delivery issues.
The secret is to plan ahead and stay informed. A cautious and attentive buyer can take full advantage of Black Friday, enjoying the best deals without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks associated with digital fraud.
Key differences between Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two important commercial events that mark the start of the shopping season with significant discounts, although they differ in their origins and dynamics. Black Friday is celebrated on the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States and is traditionally associated with offers in physical stores. During this day, shops of all kinds offer attractive promotions and discounts on electronic products, clothing, household appliances and much more, attracting crowds in search of great opportunities.
Cyber Monday, on the other hand, takes place on the following Monday and emerged as an initiative focused exclusively on online shopping. Its main objective is to encourage digital commerce, which is why e-commerce platforms and online stores concentrate their discounts on technology, fashion, and selected items. While Black Friday prioritises sales in physical establishments, Cyber Monday drives digital consumption, expanding access to promotions beyond traditional businesses. This difference in focus marks the main distinction between the two events, although there are currently more and more points of contact between them.
