The FBI has issued a holiday shopping warning for Chrome, Safari, and Edge users, highlighting a rise in online scams.
A surge in fraudulent websites, phishing emails, and counterfeit sellers threatens shoppers.
The article outlines seven critical tips from the FBI and cybersecurity experts to identify and avoid these risks.
Content Highlights
- FBI Warning: Surge in online scams targeting holiday shoppers.
- 89% Increase: Fraudulent websites up compared to last year.
- Key Tips: Verify URLs, avoid unusual payment methods, and use credit cards.
- Top Risks: Phishing emails, counterfeit sellers, and malicious QR codes.
- Expert Advice: “If it seems too good to be true, it is.”
The FBI has issued an urgent warning to online shoppers as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the holiday shopping season approaches.
With scam websites and phishing schemes on the rise, Chrome, Safari, and Edge users must exercise caution when navigating online deals to avoid falling victim to cybercriminals.
Here’s a breakdown of the risks and how you can protect yourself during this high-risk shopping period.
Online Shopping Threats at an All-Time High
Recent reports reveal a staggering 89% surge in scam websites compared to last year, alongside nearly 80% of shopping offers in inboxes being fraudulent.
Even Google search results have been manipulated to direct unsuspecting users to dangerous websites.
Amid this concerning trend, the FBI has released a detailed advisory outlining the steps shoppers should take to safeguard their personal and financial information.
The FBI’s 7-Point Online Shopping Safety Checklist
1. Check Website URLs for Legitimacy
Always verify that a website’s URL is secure, indicated by “https://” and a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. Suspicious or incorrect URLs are major red flags.
2. Research First-Time Sellers
Before making purchases from unfamiliar websites, research the seller and read reviews carefully. Be wary of fake reviews or incomplete profiles.
3. Scrutinize Auction and Marketplace Sellers
Avoid sellers with predominantly negative feedback or no ratings. Reputable sellers will have numerous positive transactions and reviews.
4. Beware of Fake “Authorized Dealers”
Watch out for sellers claiming to be authorized dealers for popular items in regions where such dealers don’t exist. These scams often involve counterfeit or unshipped goods.
5. Question Overseas Sellers
If a seller lists a U.S. address but provides excuses for being abroad, such as “on business” or “handling a family emergency,” steer clear.
6. Avoid Unusual Shipping Requests
Be skeptical of sellers who propose bypassing customs or request direct money transfers. Stick to secure payment methods like credit cards for added buyer protection.
7. Say No to Gift Card Payments
Scammers may request gift card PINs as payment, only to steal the funds without delivering the item.
Phishing Scams Target Holiday Shoppers
Cybersecurity experts warn that phishing scams are increasingly sophisticated this year.
Fake emails, counterfeit websites, and fraudulent QR codes are just some of the tools being used to trick shoppers.
Check Point’s Online Safety Tips
- Double-check URLs for spelling errors or unusual domains.
- Ensure all websites use “https://” with a secure padlock icon.
- Verify email senders and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Be cautious with QR codes, as they may lead to malicious websites.
- Refrain from sharing sensitive information like Social Security numbers unless necessary.
Examples of Fraudulent URLs
To illustrate the danger, cybersecurity teams have shared examples of fake domains targeting popular brands:
- Stüssy: stussycanadablackfriday[.]com
- Longchamp: longchampblackfriday[.]com
- Wayfair: wayfareblackfriday[.]com
- SOREL: soreloutletblackfriday[.]com
- J.Crew: jcrewblackfriday[.]com
AI-Crafted Phishing Lures: A New Challenge
This holiday season, scammers are leveraging AI to create convincing phishing emails and fraudulent websites at an unprecedented scale.
These scams mimic trusted brands with time-sensitive offers to trick consumers into sharing their credentials or installing malware.
The FBI emphasizes: “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
Stay Safe While Shopping Online
By following the FBI and cybersecurity experts’ advice, you can minimize risks and enjoy a safer shopping experience this holiday season.
Always prioritize security over convenience and remain vigilant while hunting for deals.