As the holiday season approaches, Black Friday cyber security tips are more important than ever, with the year’s biggest shopping day just around the corner. While it’s a great opportunity to grab deals, it’s also a prime time for cybercriminals, who are constantly looking for new ways to exploit eager shoppers. This year, with advancements in AI and deepfake technology, scams have become more sophisticated, making it essential to stay vigilant.
Recent data shows that online shopping scams saw a significant increase last year, with the average loss per victim nearing £1,000. In this article, we’ll highlight the latest scam tactics and offer practical tips to protect yourself from Black Friday threats.
How to Avoid Black Friday Scams in 2024
Cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging AI-driven technology to create highly convincing scams that are harder to detect. Deepfake technology, for example, allows them to impersonate trusted sources in real-time, producing fake videos or audio messages that sound like voices of people you know or companies you trust.
In addition, AI is being used to craft more realistic and personalised phishing messages that target individuals specifically, making it even more difficult to tell whether an offer is legitimate or not. By understanding these tactics and recognising the warning signs, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and enjoy a safer shopping experience this Black Friday.
Black Friday Cyber Security: 10 Essential Tips You Need to Know
1. Be Wary of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals
Scammers love to entice shoppers with unbelievably low prices. If a deal seems suspiciously good, cross-check the price on multiple reputable websites before committing to a purchase. Remember, if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Watch Out for AI-Driven Phishing Emails
AI-generated phishing emails are more realistic and convincing than ever, often appearing to come from trusted retailers with special Black Friday deals. These emails may include malicious links or attachments that can steal your personal information. Be cautious with any unexpected emails, verify the sender, and never provide sensitive information via email.
3. Verify Videos and Audio Messages
Deepfake technology now allows scammers to create fake videos or voice messages that sound like they’re from people you know, including “customer support” reps or well-known brands. If you receive an unexpected message asking for payment or personal information, verify its authenticity by contacting the sender directly through an official channel to ensure your Black Friday cyber security isn’t compromised.
4. Stick to Secure Websites
Cybercriminals often set up fake online stores that mimic popular retailers to steal your money. Before entering payment information, ensure that the website URL begins with “https” and look for the padlock symbol in the browser bar, as these indicate that the site is secure. Always follow essential Black Friday cyber security tips to protect yourself from fraud.
5. Be Cautious with Pop-Up Ads
Pop-up ads promising huge discounts can lead to malicious websites or install malware on your device. Avoid clicking on pop-ups, especially if they seem too enticing or come from unfamiliar sources. Use Black Friday cyber security best practices to stay safe from these risks.
6. Beware of Fake Shopping Apps
Fraudsters are increasingly creating fake apps that mimic legitimate retailers. Download apps only from trusted sources, like the App Store or Google Play, and read reviews to ensure they’re safe. Stick to Black Friday cyber security precautions to prevent data theft.
7. Double-Check Social Media Deals
Scammers often post fake deals on social media to attract victims. Verify any deals you see by checking the official website of the retailer. Legitimate company accounts will have a blue verification badge, but scammers can also imitate these, so double-check the link before clicking. Protect your Black Friday cyber security by confirming social media promotions.
8. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Online Shopping
Ensure your Black Friday cyber security stays intact by avoiding public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi is convenient but often lacks security, making it an easy target for cybercriminals. Use a secure, private network for shopping, or consider a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
9. Watch for Gift Card Scams
Discounted gift cards can be a Black Friday trap, especially when sold on unofficial sites. Some may have no value or could be fraudulent. Buy gift cards only from reputable sources and check the balance before using them to ensure your Black Friday cyber security is protected.
10. Be Careful with Voice-Activated Scams
With the rise of smart devices, scammers are using automated calls or messages that sound human to trick people into revealing information or making purchases. If you receive a suspicious call asking for payment or personal details, hang up and verify it through an official contact method.
Stay Smart, Shop Safe This Black Friday 2024
Black Friday is an exciting time, but it’s essential to stay aware of potential risks. With AI and deepfake technology enhancing scam tactics, it’s easier than ever to fall into a trap. Following these tips can help you stay safe while you enjoy holiday shopping.
And remember, MetaCompliance offers cyber security awareness training and free resources that can help you and your team recognise and avoid these kinds of threats. Have a safe and happy holiday shopping season!
