As the holiday shopping season approaches, characterised by Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, a significant increase in consumer activity is anticipated. However, the FBI has issued warnings regarding the heightened risk of scams during this busy period. Paul Keener, a Cyber Security Strategist with GuidePoint, highlighted the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) as a potent tool for criminals seeking to exploit unsuspecting shoppers.
Speaking to CBS 8, Keener stated, “Generative AI makes it a lot easier to create very realistic social media advertisements that look like they’re coming from legitimate retailers.” This technology allows scammers to craft advertisements that closely mimic those from reputable companies, leading consumers to fraudulent websites designed to gather personal information and steal money.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers fell victim to shopping scams, losing over $95 million during the shopping months of October through December of the previous year. The FBI cautions shoppers to remain vigilant and adopt protective measures when browsing online.
One recommended strategy by Keener is for consumers to refrain from clicking on advertisements immediately. Tiana Olmos, a shopper, shared her approach to online deals: “If I find something that pops up on Instagram, I just always go to the go look on my internet to find it there, not from Instagram direct or Facebook or anything like that.” This cautious behaviour can help prevent falling into the trap of fake offers.
When making purchases, Keener advises using credit cards instead of debit cards, noting that “even better than that” is utilising digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Google Pay. These methods create an additional layer of security between the consumer and potential scammers, reducing the risk of immediate financial loss.
Consumers are also urged to be wary of deals that seem “too good to be true” or marked with “today only” promotions, as these are often tactics employed to create a false sense of urgency and encourage hasty decisions.
Amid the frenzy of holiday shopping, individuals like Penny Bostian are implementing more considerate shopping habits. After the crowds at Target subsided on Black Friday, Bostian sought to purchase a Taylor Swift coffee table book for her granddaughter, mindful of the potential for stock shortages. “The best thing you can do is take a moment is this legit, is this real, do I need this now?” she reflected, emphasising the importance of discernment in today’s shopping landscape.
As online shopping continues to grow in popularity, the intersection of innovative technology and consumer vigilance is crucial in navigating the risks associated with holiday scams.
Source: Noah Wire Services