How to Spot Black Friday Scams & Avoid Being Taken for a Ride

It’s November, which can only mean one thing: Black Friday is almost here. Shops are slashing prices, online ads are everywhere, and the thrill of grabbing a deal is hard to resist. But, behind those flashing “60% off!” signs and “limited-time offers,” scammers are waiting, ready to pounce on eager shoppers. As the shopping season kicks off, it's vital to recognize when a “deal” is actually a trap. Let’s dive into how to spot the scams and keep your wallet safe.

Cheap or Cheat? How to Tell the Difference This Black Friday

The “huge savings” advertised may not actually save you anything if the product is low-quality or overpriced from the start. Here’s how to spot a potential scam:

• Fake Discounts: Some retailers increase original prices right before Black Friday, making the discount look massive. Track the usual price on tools like CamelCamelCamel to know if the deal is genuine.
• Suspicious Product Quality: Scammers often lure shoppers with super-cheap electronics, gadgets, and accessories that may break soon after purchase. Look for brand names you trust and read customer reviews to avoid wasting money on poor-quality items.
• Look for Verified Retailers: Unknown websites offering “insane discounts” on popular items might just take your money and run. Stick to sites you trust, and check for secure payment symbols like the lock icon in the address bar.

Recognize “Too Good to Be True” Deals

If an offer sounds too amazing, it probably is. Here are some common Black Friday scams that prey on this idea:

1. Fake Websites and Ads: Scammers often create fake websites or ads that look almost exactly like popular retailers’. Double-check the URL. Scammers tweak just one letter (a tactic known as “typosquatting”), so it’s easy to miss. A small difference can mean you’re on a completely different (and shady) site.
2. Phony Gift Cards and Coupons: Got a Black Friday email about a free gift card? Be careful. Genuine retailers rarely give out freebies with no strings attached, so be cautious with any surprise gift card or coupon that lands in your inbox or social media feed.
3. Outrageous Deals on Limited Stock: Some scam sites advertise “super discounts” on top brands, claiming stock is almost gone. If you’ve never heard of the site and the deal seems a bit too good, it’s safer to walk away.

Red Flags: How to Spot a Black Friday Scam Before It Gets You

Scams look slick these days, so it’s tricky to pick them out while you’re shopping. But some red flags can help keep you safe:

• Requests for Personal Info: Legit companies won’t ask for personal details like passwords or bank info over email, text, or phone. If they do, it’s a big red flag.
• Pressure and Urgency: “Act Now!” and “Limited Time Only!” are scammers’ favorite phrases. They know we’re all a little more impulsive under pressure. Take a breath, slow down, and double-check before clicking anything.
• Suspicious Links and Attachments: Got a message with an unexpected link or attachment? Hover over the link first to see where it actually goes, and avoid attachments from unknown senders—scams are often disguised in unexpected messages.
• Grammar Mistakes: Not every scam is full of typos, but a lot are. If you notice strange grammar or unprofessional language, that’s a hint to steer clear.
• Free Email Addresses: Scam emails often come from free emaill addresses like Gmail or Outlook, which can be opened by anyone. Take a close look—if it’s off, don’t engage.
• Generic Greetings: Scammers usually avoid using your name, opting for “Dear User” or “Dear Customer” instead. If the greeting feels impersonal, listen to that gut feeling—it might just be a scam.

Bottom Line

Black Friday is all about hunting for deals, but don’t let scammers turn that hunt into a trap! Remember, if something feels off or too good to be true, it’s worth taking a second look. Enjoy the season, score those savings, and keep your money safe. Happy shopping!

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