Buyer beware: Black Friday scams and how to avoid them

With more people looking for a bargain this year as a result of cost-of-living pressures, Australians are being warned to be aware of scam tactics.

Matt Hannan, Head of Fraud Mitigation at HSBC Australia, said consumers need to shop smart this sale season to avoid becoming an unwitting victim of a scam.

“As cost of living continues to weigh on people’s minds and pockets, picking up a bargain is tempting for many of us. However, scammers see Black Friday and Cyber Monday as the perfect time to target unsuspecting customers and this is happening overwhelmingly online.

“People need to be extra vigilant when shopping, especially if you see a deal that seems too good to be true. It’s worth taking a moment to check who you’re dealing with online before parting with your money and your personal information,” he said.

Below are some tips to stay safe this sale season:

Be wary of phishing emails and texts

Black Friday and Cyber Monday attract phishing emails offering “limited time offers.” Double-check the sender’s email address for any strange letters or symbols, and never click links or download attachments from unknown senders.

Shop only on trusted websites

Stick to familiar, reputable retailers you’ve used before or large online marketplaces. Scammers often create fake websites that look legitimate but are only meant to capture your information or payment. There are a few easy ways to check if you’re dealing with a legitimate merchant, for example by checking the website address and reading online reviews for the company.

Avoid too-good-to-be-true deals

If a deal sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Scammers use ultra-low prices to lure in unsuspecting shoppers. Always compare prices on multiple websites to get a sense of what is reasonable.

Beware of fake customer support

If you run into an issue, go directly to the retailer’s official website for support information. Scammers often set up fake support numbers and profiles, especially during peak shopping times.

Limit information shared online

Avoid entering any more personal information than necessary at checkout. No legitimate retailer will ask for your personal details beyond standard payment information.

“There are some great bargains on offer during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but vigilance is important to stay safe from becoming a scam victim. If something feels off or rushed, it’s best to take a step back before going ahead with the purchase. If you have made a transaction and believe it is fraudulent, contact your bank immediately using the contact details on their website,” said Hannan.