Black Friday, which will happen from November 24 to November 27, will lead to more scams, especially since Christmas is just around the corner.
Black Friday Christmas scams are not a big deal for some people since they are not affected. However, law enforcement authorities said these malicious schemes stole over $51 million (£41 million) from unsuspecting victims.
The UK Finance also confirmed that 27% of these scam victims are parents, who have been fooled as they pay for goods and services that didn't arrive.
How To Avoid Black Friday Christmas Scams
People shop during Black Friday in Santa Anita within the city of Arcadia, California on November 25, 2022. - Inflation hovers over US shopppers this year as many hit the stores for the traditional day after Thanksgiving shopping sales.
The UK Finance trade association for the UK banking and financial services sector released its fraud report, revealing that fraudsters mostly rely on purchase scams.
The financial organization confirmed that around 2/3 of scams during the first half of 2023 are all purchase frauds. UK Finance officials added that the purchase scam cases in the United Kingdom increased by 43%.
In numbers, authorities recorded over 53,900 purchase scams in 2022. This shrinks compared to the 76,946 in the first half of 2023.
"More and more criminals are using fake ads and websites to target their victims," said UK Finance Economic Crime Managing Director Ben Donaldson via the Independent UK.
"And particularly at this time of year, too many parents who are trying to bring joy to their children are falling victim to these ruthless crimes," added Donaldson.
To help parents avoid these scammers during the Black Friday sales event, the official said that they need to follow the "Take Five to Stop Fraud" advice, which involves:
Stop
Before sending money, always take a moment to stop and think about the purchase if it's safe or not.
Challenge
Always challenge people offering the product. Remember, scammers will most likely rush or panic you.
Protect
If you suspect your purchase is a scam, immediately contact your bank for assistance.
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About Take Five to Stop Fraud
Shoppers pass a promotional sign for 'Black Friday' sales discounts on Oxford Street in London, on November 24, 2017. - Black Friday is a sales offer originating from the US where retailers slash prices on the day after the Thanksgiving holiday. In the UK it is used as a marketing device to entice Christmas shoppers.
The Take Five to Stop Fraud is the national campaign of the UK to help people avoid scammers and other malicious actors. This initiative offers straightforward and impartial tips.
Take Five to Stop Fraud advice is effective against email, online, and phone-based scams. The anti-scam campaign's official website even offers a quick test to help people know if they'll do well if they encounter scammers.
If you want to learn more about the UK's Take Five to Stop Fraud, you can click this link.
