Black Friday Cybersecurity-jackpot

As Black Friday approaches, shoppers are urged to be vigilant against a wave of online scams that could cost consumers a staggering £11.4 billion.

The UK’s cyber security agency has warned shoppers to stay alert for scams this Black Friday. New figures reveal that over £11.5 million was lost to online criminals during last year’s festive season, highlighting the need for vigilance as fraudsters exploit the surge in online shopping.

The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is urging shoppers to be cautious of tactics that create false urgency, such as limited-time offers or claims of scarce availability—common tricks used by scammers. Shoppers are advised to avoid clicking on unfamiliar links and to research companies or sellers by checking reviews on trusted platforms before making purchases.

Cybercriminals are capitalizing on the annual shopping frenzy, employing increasingly sophisticated tactics to deceive unsuspecting consumers. From phishing emails and fake websites to social media scams and fraudulent online marketplaces, the threats are diverse and dangerous.

Cybercriminals craft deceptive emails and messages that mimic legitimate retailers, luring consumers into revealing sensitive information. These phishing attempts often promise exclusive deals or urgent calls to action, leading unsuspecting users to malicious websites.

The proliferation of counterfeit online stores is a significant concern. These fraudulent sites entice shoppers with unbeatable prices on popular items, only to steal payment details or deliver counterfeit goods. According to Check Point Research, there has been an 89% increase in Black Friday-related websites compared to the previous year, many of which are malicious.

Retailers experience a surge in ransomware attacks during peak shopping periods. Cybercriminals target businesses, encrypting critical data and demanding ransom payments to restore access, thereby disrupting operations during crucial sales events.

Finally, the events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, both consumers and businesses face heightened cybersecurity risks. Cybercriminals exploit the surge in online transactions, employing tactics such as phishing, fraudulent websites, and ransomware attacks.