FBI Issues Holiday Alert: Scammers Targeting Online Shoppers with Fake Deals
As the holiday season kicks into high gear, the FBI has issued a stark warning to consumers about the rise in online shopping scams, urging shoppers to stay vigilant against fake deals, phishing schemes, and fraudulent websites.
The Bureau highlighted a surge in scam tactics aimed at exploiting the season’s rush for gifts and bargains. Common schemes include counterfeit e-commerce websites offering luxury goods at unrealistically low prices, phishing emails that mimic popular retailers, and fake delivery notifications designed to steal personal or financial information.
“Cybercriminals know this is a prime time for shopping and are using increasingly sophisticated methods to trick consumers,” an FBI spokesperson said.
The agency recommends shoppers verify website authenticity, avoid unfamiliar links in unsolicited emails, and use secure payment methods. It also advises checking bank statements regularly for unauthorized charges.
Last year, holiday shopping scams cost Americans over $300 million, with an average loss of $900 per victim. The FBI urges anyone encountering suspicious activity to report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
In the season of giving, the FBI reminds shoppers to stay informed and cautious to avoid becoming victims of cybercrime.
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