Denver, CO – With Black Friday upon us, the FBI has issued a new warning for online shoppers, emphasizing the increased risks faced by millions of consumers this holiday shopping season. Reports indicate a significant surge in scam websites and fraudulent shopping offers, with cybercriminals taking advantage of the online shopping frenzy.
To combat these threats, the FBI has outlined seven key points for shoppers to consider when making online purchases. These guidelines include checking the legitimacy and security of websites, researching sellers before making a purchase, and being cautious of sellers offering deals that seem too good to be true. Additionally, the FBI advises against making payments with pre-paid gift cards to avoid falling victim to scams.
According to cyber research teams, cybercriminals are ramping up their efforts during the holiday season, with a significant increase in fraudulent websites impersonating well-known brands. It is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and follow security protocols to protect themselves from potential scams.
In light of the surge in online shopping activity, cybersecurity experts recommend closely monitoring URLs for misspellings or unusual domains and ensuring that websites have a secure connection. With mobile spending on the rise, consumers must exercise caution when making purchases on their mobile devices to avoid falling prey to scams optimized for small screens.
As online spending reaches record levels this holiday season, it is imperative for consumers to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect themselves from cyber threats. By following the FBI’s guidelines and remaining vigilant while shopping online, consumers can reduce the risk of falling victim to scams and safeguard their financial information. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.