Fake Black Friday Sale websites are on the rise: Here’s how to spot them

As Black Friday approaches, the excitement of grabbing great deals online can sometimes cloud our judgment. Cyber criminals know this and are already gearing up to take advantage of eager shoppers. The days leading up to this shopping extravaganza are a prime time for malicious websites and phishing scams. To help you stay safe, it’s important to understand how to spot these fake sites before you fall for them.

Every year, as Black Friday nears, new websites pop up claiming to offer irresistible deals. While some of these websites are harmless, a significant number are malicious. Check Point Research has noted an alarming 89 percent increase in the number of new Black Friday websites compared to last year. What’s even more concerning is that this surge is more than three times higher than it was in 2022.

Many of these sites may look genuine at first glance, but a closer look reveals that they are often riddled with ads or just show a default webpage. Some even impersonate well-known brands like Stussy, Longchamp, Wayfair, and others. In fact, about 3 percent of these sites are flagged as risky or malicious. Cyber attackers use these fraudulent sites to steal your personal and financial information, especially by mimicking the design and feel of trusted retail platforms.

Also read: Black Friday Sale 2024 India: Dates, discounts, deals, offers, platforms and other details 

How to spot fake Black Friday websites

To protect yourself while shopping online this Black Friday, here are a few tips to help you spot fake websites:

• Check the URL: Always double-check the website’s address. Look out for strange spellings or unfamiliar domain names.
• Look for HTTPS: Ensure the website is secure by checking that the URL starts with “https://” and has a padlock icon next to it.
• Watch for deals that seem too good to be true: If a deal feels unrealistically cheap, it might be a scam. Trust your instincts and avoid clicking on offers that seem too good to be true.
• Be cautious with emails: Phishing emails often use urgent language to prompt you to click on links or download attachments. Always verify the sender and never open suspicious emails.
• Use secure payment methods: When shopping online, always opt for credit cards over debit cards, as they provide better protection if your information is stolen.