Tips to Avoid Online Shopping Scams During Black Friday
As the Black Friday shopping frenzy approaches, online shoppers are being warned about the potential risks of falling victim to fraudsters. Last year, a staggering £4.9 million was reported in online shopping fraud between Black Friday and Christmas in the UK, with Welsh shoppers alone losing an estimated £958,200 to scams. The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has released data showing the prevalence of online shopping fraud cases during this period, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant while making purchases online.
In response to these alarming figures, a Digital PR Agency has provided nine essential tips to help consumers stay safe while shopping online during Black Friday and the upcoming holiday season. Firstly, it is recommended to only purchase from reputable and trusted suppliers. Stick to well-known online retailers that you have previously bought from to minimise the risk of falling for fraudulent schemes. Be cautious when browsing unfamiliar sites that offer deals that seem too good to be true.
Another crucial tip is to look for signs of a clone website before entering any personal or payment information. Check for ‘https://’ in the URL and a green padlock symbol in the URL bar, indicating that the site is secure and encrypted. Additionally, be wary of spelling and grammar mistakes on the page, as well as any irregular graphics that may suggest a fake website. If you receive an email from an unknown source claiming to offer exclusive Black Friday deals, avoid clicking on any links provided and instead, visit the retailer’s website directly through a search engine.
When making significant purchases, using a credit card is advised over debit cards or bank transfers. Credit cards offer better fraud protection, making it easier to recover funds in case of a scam or failed transaction. Alternatively, consider using secure payment methods like PayPal or Apple Pay, which provide additional layers of security for online transactions. Remember, if a deal appears too good to be true, exercise caution and be sceptical of overly enticing offers.
With sales kicking off this week, online shoppers are urged to stay alert and follow these preventive measures to safeguard their finances and personal information. By adopting these nine tips, consumers can minimise the risk of falling victim to online shopping scams and enjoy a secure shopping experience during Black Friday and beyond. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and shop smart this holiday season to protect yourself from potential fraudsters lurking in the digital sphere.