As the Black Friday season approaches, it’s crucial for EVERYONE to be aware of the increasing threat of email scams. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself, your family, and your organization.

The Current Situation

In 2024, a whopping 77% of Black Friday-themed spam emails have been identified as scams. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with a 7% rise compared to 2023 and a 21% jump from 2022.

Key Terms:

• Spam: Unsolicited emails sent in bulk, often for advertising purposes, excluding newsletters .
• Scam: A fraudulent scheme designed to trick people into giving away personal information or money.

What These Scams Look Like

Scammers are getting more sophisticated and using AI tools to tailor their approach to different types of shoppers:

1. They’re offering seemingly incredible discounts on popular brands.
2. Some emails claim to be from well-known retailers, offering exclusive rewards.
3. Others send fake shipment notifications, complete with malicious attachments.

The Goal of These Scams

These fraudulent emails aim to:

1. Trick you into providing personal information, including login credentials and banking details.
2. Steal money through fake purchases.
3. Install malicious software (like banking trojans or password stealers) on your devices.

How to Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Organization

1. Verify Email Sources: Always double-check the sender’s email address and any website URLs for legitimacy.
2. Avoid Clicking Links: Instead of clicking links in emails, go directly to the retailer’s website.
3. Use Security Tools: Employ software that can help identify suspicious links and emails.
4. Be Skeptical of Surveys: Treat any surveys promising rewards or deals with caution unless you can verify that they are legitimate.
5. Seek Professional Help: If you find yourself in the uncomfortable position of being the victim, seek professional help from law enforcement or a qualified cybersecurity specialist.

This threat is not just an email problem. Spam and therefore Scams are prevalent on Facebook, X, and other popular social media platforms. Even your phone isn’t safe, with texting scams becoming increasingly common. It’s important to always stay vigilant while online, and especially during high-traffic shopping periods like Black Friday. Remember, it’s better to miss a deal than to fall for a trick. Trust your instincts: if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Stay safe out there and may your Black Friday shopping be scam-free and full of actual bargains!