Anyone shopping in Black Friday sales issued with scam alert | UK | News

As the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales loom, shoppers are anticipated to splash out billions of pounds.

However, numerous individuals are voicing worries on social media regarding potential scams during this bustling online shopping season.

Specialists are now warning that the scramble to bag a bargain can leave internet shoppers more exposed to con artists, who employ ever more cunning tactics to pilfer their cash.

Neil Bayliss, director of IT support specialists Hubtel, has pinpointed several warning signs that consumers should watch out for when making online purchases.

He said: “The Black Friday and Cyber Monday period is a time many people look forward to as they enjoy big discounts on a vast array of products and brands.

“Unfortunately, it’s also an ideal time for fraudsters to strike due to the huge numbers of online transactions and vast sums of money involved.

“We all have our part to play in ensuring cybersecurity, and there are a few golden rules that can help you stay safe as you shop online.”

The IT expert added: “Spelling errors and broken links on websites are a major red flag, and a lack of verifiable customer reviews can be a warning sign that it’s not a genuine store.

“You should also ensure that the website you are using has the HTTPS prefix, so your data is encrypted and you can be confident it’s a secure environment.

“Other key red flags you should look out for include suspiciously low prices, poor quality website design and functionality and a lack of secure payment options such as credit cards or PayPal.”

Black Friday, which traditionally marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping period, falls on November 28 this year.

Bargain hunters seek out substantial reductions on everything from gadgets and fashion to household necessities and children’s gifts.

However, owing to its massive popularity, numerous major retailers now launch their offers days or even weeks ahead of the official date.

To stay protected during this time, consumers are advised to buy exclusively from trusted brands and websites whilst remaining alert for warning signs that could suggest potential fraud.

Bayliss added: “Fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal hard-earned money from us, and anyone can fall victim to a scam.

“Advances in technology and artificial intelligence can make it harder than ever to spot a scam, so we all have to play our part in staying safe online.

“Top tips include avoiding unsecure connections such as public Wi-Fi spots, being aware of the common fraud red flags and pay close attention to details such as the retailer’s contact information, customer reviews and terms and conditions.

“Using secure payment methods such as credit cards can also offer you greater protection as you spend your hard-earned money online.”