Black Friday Scams
October 29, 2026
As Black Friday and the holiday shopping season approach, consumers can expect a flood of sales promotions, emails, texts, and app offers. Unfortunately, scammers see this busy spending season as an opportunity to steal money and personal information. Common holiday scams include fake online stores advertising unbelievable deals, fraudulent order confirmation messages, fake gift card notifications, and counterfeit shopping apps designed to capture login credentials and financial data. The good news is that a little caution can go a long way in helping you stay protected.
Before making a purchase, always verify website addresses, shop with trusted retailers, and be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. Avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or text messages, and instead navigate directly to a retailer’s website or app. If you receive an unexpected order confirmation or gift card notification, contact the company or sender directly to verify its legitimacy before taking any action.
Using a credit card for purchases can provide additional fraud protection, and taking a few extra moments to verify websites, emails, and apps can help prevent costly mistakes. Remember: if an offer feels suspicious or unusually generous, trust your instincts and do some additional research before sharing personal or financial information.