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Avoid Scams This Black Friday and Cyber Monday

After indulging in turkey and pumpkin pie, millions of Americans traditionally head to the mall for a shopping spree. However, times have changed. According to Capital One Shopping Research, 87.2 million Americans shopped online on Black Friday in 2022, and in 2024, online spending is projected to reach $10.183 billion. Before you dive into the latest deals on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, take a moment to Think Before You Click!

Beware of Your Inbox:

  1. Urgent Emails: Be cautious of emails demanding immediate action, such as account suspension threats. Clicking on links in these emails can lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal data.
  2. Scam Communications: Be wary of scam calls, texts, and emails about account issues.

According to McAfee, 36% of Americans fall for holiday online shopping scams. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday approaching, here are three common scams to watch out for:

Shipping Scams:

Ever received a text or email claiming your package couldn’t be delivered and asking you to click a link? If you didn’t sign up for tracking, DON’T CLICK! The USPS offers free tracking tools and does not send texts or emails about tracking numbers. You can learn how to report USPS-related scams: Smishing: Package Tracking Text Scams – United States Postal Inspection Service.

Online Deals and Charities:

Scammers create fake online stores with huge discounts to steal your credit or debit card information. They also post fake listings for discounted gift cards on sites like Craigslist, leaving you with an empty gift card and bank account.

During the season of giving, scammers set up fake charity pages and GoFundMe campaigns. Always check the URL and the charity’s name before donating. Legitimate charities should clearly explain how your donation will be used.

Secret Santa Schemes:

Who doesn’t love a Secret Santa gift exchange? Unfortunately, scammers do too. They send invitations via email or social media for Secret Santa programs, tricking you into sharing your information and encouraging you to invite friends and family.

These schemes can involve sending money to strangers or buying gifts for a “secret dog.” Such exchanges are illegal in the US and Canada, and participants could face jail time, fines, or lawsuits for mail fraud. For more information, check out the Better Business Bureau: BBB Warning: Secret sister gift exchange is illegal.

What To Do If Compromised:

  • Change Passwords: Start with your email and then other critical accounts. Consider using a password manager.
  • Notify Authorities: Report the incident to relevant authorities or platforms.
  • Monitor Your Accounts: Watch for suspicious activity.
  • Seek Professional Help: Consider getting assistance from cybersecurity professionals.
  • For an added layer of security, set up a call  with our Solutions Specialist for an IT Audit of your company’s network. Stay safe and secure this holiday season!

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