How to Avoid Black Friday Scams: Tips for a Safe and Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Season

Black Friday is a time for great deals and holiday excitement, but it’s also a prime opportunity for scammers. Every year, cybercriminals target shoppers with fake websites, phishing emails, and fraudulent ads designed to steal money or sensitive information. At eCreek IT, we believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge to navigate these threats safely. Here’s how you can protect yourself and enjoy a fun, scam-free holiday season.

Common Black Friday Scams to Watch For

1. Phishing Emails
   Scammers send fake emails that mimic trusted retailers, urging you to click on links or download attachments. These links often lead to malicious websites or infect your device with malware.
2. Fake Websites
   Fraudulent websites mimic legitimate online stores, offering “too good to be true” deals. Once you enter payment information, scammers disappear with your money.
3. Social Media Scams
   Fake ads or posts promising massive discounts can lead to phishing pages or counterfeit goods.
4. Gift Card Scams
   Scammers often request payment via gift cards, making it nearly impossible to recover your money.
5. Bogus Shipping Updates
   Fake shipping notifications prompt you to click on malicious links to “track your order.”

Tips to Stay Vigilant

1. Verify Websites
   Check the URL for accuracy. Look for “https” and a padlock icon to ensure secure connections. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails—manually type the retailer’s URL into your browser instead.
2. Use Trusted Retailers
   Stick to well-known and reputable retailers. Be cautious of unfamiliar brands, even if their ads appear legitimate.
3. Beware of Unrealistic Deals
   If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Compare prices with other websites to determine legitimacy.
4. Protect Your Payment Information
   Use credit cards instead of debit cards for better fraud protection. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security on your accounts.
5. Monitor Your Accounts
   Regularly check bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges, especially during the holiday season.
6. Enable Device Security
   Keep your devices updated with the latest software and antivirus protection. Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi without a secure VPN.

Proactive Measures for Safe Shopping

• Educate Yourself and Others: Share these tips with family and friends to help them stay vigilant.
• Shop Early: Avoid last-minute purchases that can lead to rushed decisions and scams.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create unique passwords for your shopping accounts to reduce the risk of account compromise.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you come across a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local consumer protection agency.

eCreek’s Commitment to a Safe Holiday Season

At eCreek IT, we provide cybersecurity solutions designed to protect businesses and individuals from online threats. Whether you’re a small business looking to safeguard customer data or an individual navigating holiday shopping, staying informed and vigilant is key to avoiding scams.

This Black Friday, shop smart, protect your information, and focus on the joy of the season. For more cybersecurity tips and IT solutions, contact eCreek IT today.