As Black Friday approaches, online shoppers must navigate the ever-present threat of scams seeking to exploit their excitement for deals.
At a Glance
- The UK’s cyber security agency highlights increased risks during Black Friday, with millions lost to scams last year.
- Two-step verification is encouraged to enhance security and protect accounts from unauthorized access.
- Consumers should beware of tactics that induce urgency, often used by fraudsters.
- The “Stop! Think Fraud” campaign educates shoppers on identifying and avoiding online scams.
Rising Threat During Black Friday
The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) cautions shoppers as Black Friday approaches, emphasizing the urgent need to stay vigilant against online scams. Last year, online criminals stole over £11.5 million, with losses up by nearly £1 million from the previous year. The NCSC focuses on educating consumers about the increased fraud risk during such sales events.
Cyber security experts identify the period around Black Friday as a prime time for cybercriminals, who use sophisticated scam techniques to deceive buyers. Their methods often include creating false urgency with limited-time offers, enticing shoppers into quickly making purchases without thorough checks. Shoppers are advised to scrutinize deal authenticity and choose secure payment methods.
The Importance of Two-Step Verification
The NCSC launched a campaign to advocate for using two-step verification, which adds an extra layer of security to keep accounts safe. Even if a password is compromised, two-step verification helps prevent unauthorized access. This step is vital for those looking to protect their personal and financial information while shopping online.
“Unfortunately, this is also prime time for cybercriminals, who exploit bargain hunters with increasingly sophisticated scams – sometimes crafted using AI – making them harder to detect.” – NCSC chief executive Richard Horne
The campaign emphasizes not clicking on suspicious links and researching sellers through trusted reviews. NCSC chief executive Richard Horne reminds shoppers that this is a critical time to utilize secure passwords and implement two-factor authentication for added protection. Fraud Minister Lord Hanson supports the initiative, warning against clicking on suspicious links and urging vigilance.
Initiatives to Curb Fraud
The “Stop! Think Fraud” campaign plays a crucial role in spreading awareness of common scam techniques. Action Fraud data shows that 43% of fraud cases involved social media platforms, with another 19% linked to online marketplaces. By promoting critical thinking, the campaign helps shoppers engage safely and securely during their online purchases.
Those aged 30-39 made the most fraud reports, closely followed by 40-49-year-olds, as indicated by Action Fraud. Adam Mercer from Action Fraud advises consumers not to feel pressured into purchases. Using credit cards can provide an extra layer of protection against fraudulent activities, as they offer more robust security features than debit cards.
