Top Tips to Avoid Black Friday and Cyber Monday Scams: What You Need to Know

As Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach, Cornwall Council’s Trading Standards team is urging shoppers to stay vigilant and avoid falling victim to scams. While the sales can be a great opportunity to snag a bargain, shoppers are being warned to shop wisely and steer clear of deals that seem too good to be true.

Here are some key tips to help you shop safely and ensure you’re getting a genuine deal this shopping season.

Research Before You Buy

Before making a purchase, compare prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best value. Trading Standards warns that some retailers artificially inflate prices in the months leading up to sales, making discounts appear better than they are.

Reading customer reviews and ratings can also provide valuable insight into the quality of products and sellers. Don’t forget to consider delivery costs, which can vary significantly between retailers. Be cautious of counterfeit items, which may be priced attractively but lack quality.

Watch Out for Scams

Scammers often target shoppers during big sales events, creating fake websites to trick consumers into paying for goods that never arrive. Cornwall Council advises avoiding clicking on suspicious links, particularly those sent via unsolicited emails or messages.

Always ensure the website’s URL begins with “https://” to confirm it’s secure. And remember: if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Protect Your Personal Information

When making purchases online, use secure payment methods such as credit cards or trusted services like PayPal, which offer buyer and fraud protection. Avoid making transactions over public Wi-Fi and instead use a secure, private connection to safeguard your information.

Understand Your Consumer Rights

Before making a purchase, check the seller’s return and refund policies. Knowing your rights can save you stress if the goods arrive faulty or aren’t as expected.

Councillor Martyn Alvey, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for Public Protection, emphasised the importance of checking the legitimacy of sellers: “Being scammed can be an embarrassing and costly experience. We know there are good deals out there, but unfortunately, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Please make sure you do your research. Check that the seller is legitimate before making purchases and try not to rush into anything.”

Ensure the retailer has items in stock and review delivery terms so you’re not left waiting for weeks for your purchase.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

It’s easy to overspend during big sales events. Trading Standards recommends setting a budget before you start shopping and making a list of the items you actually need. Avoid impulsive purchases, and don’t let flashy discounts push you into buying items you don’t need.

Report Concerns

If you encounter issues with a product or service, you can report them via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline at 0808 223 1133 or online through their website.

By taking these precautions, you can shop smarter and enjoy the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales without worry. Stay informed, stay secure, and happy shopping!