Black Friday is that exciting time when deals are everywhere, and everyone’s in a rush to grab the best discounts. But while we’re busy shopping, scammers are busy scheming. Black Friday scam statistics reveal a rise in fake websites and phishing emails that are becoming a growing concern for shoppers.
VPNRanks conducted a survey and found that 30.5% of shoppers have encountered a Black Friday scam at least once in their lifetime, highlighting the pervasive risk during this shopping season. Adding to the concern, The Guardian revealed that criminals are now using AI to trick shoppers, with over £11.5 million lost to fraud during last year’s festive season.
In this report, I’ve covered eye-opening Black Friday scam statistics, including findings from the VPNRanks survey, and what to expect in 2024. You’ll find insights into the latest trends, survey data, and practical tips to shop smarter and stay safe.
Editor’s Pick: VPNRanks’ Key Findings on Black Friday Scam Statistics
VPNRanks survey data has been analyzed to explore key findings on current Black Friday scam statistics and trends, while historical data has informed predictions for its developments in 2024.
Exclusive Findings on Black Friday from Survey Data:
- 30.5% of shoppers have encountered a Black Friday scam at least once in their lifetime..
- Social media platforms are identified as the most common channel for promoting fake deals, accounting for 24.8%.
- 33.3% have received scam messages or emails claiming to offer Black Friday deals.
- Identifying phishing or scam emails is difficult for 35.2%, increasing their vulnerability.
- Only 26.7% of shoppers double-check the authenticity of Black Friday deals before purchasing.
- 24.8% believe clicking on ads or links without verification makes consumers most vulnerable to scams.
- 41.9% of shoppers have lost money to Black Friday scams at some point in their lives..
- To avoid falling victim, 28.6% take steps like avoiding unsolicited emails or messages.
Prediction for Black Friday Scam Trends 2024
- Black Friday fraud losses in 2024 are predicted to hit $11 billion in the US, with over 2.8 million cases.
- Black Friday scams in 2024 are expected to cost £12.5 million, with over 17,600 cases in the UK.
- Emails and messages are projected to dominate Black Friday scams in 2024, targeting shoppers with fake deals and phishing tactics.
Disclaimer: These figures are estimates provided by VPNRanks, based on historical data and current trends analyzed through predictive models. They represent potential future scenarios and should not be considered exact predictions. The actual outcomes may vary depending on various factors, including new interventions and changes in online behavior.
Watch the video below by VPNRanks to explore key Black Friday scam statistics and uncover the tactics scammers use to target shoppers. Learn essential tips to protect yourself and shop safely during the holiday season!
Black Friday Scam Cases and Financial Losses
Every year, millions are lost to fraud during Black Friday sales, with scammers becoming more sophisticated in their tactics to deceive unsuspecting shoppers.
According to a VPNRanks survey, 30.5% of shoppers have encountered a Black Friday scam, and 41.9% have lost money to such schemes.
These figures serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online shopping during the holiday season, underscoring the importance of staying cautious and verifying deals to avoid falling victim.
Black Friday Scams in the US: Trends and Statistics
⚠️VPNRanks predicts Black Friday fraud losses to hit $11 billion in 2024, with over 2.8 million cases in the US. This rise is driven by higher consumer spending and AI-powered scam tactics.
Data Collection
Black Friday scams in the US have been a growing concern, with fraudulent activities impacting countless shoppers each year. Here’s a closer look at the data highlighting consumer spending and fraud reports:
- In 2023, consumers spent an average of $321.41 on holiday-related items during the five-day Black Friday weekend, according to the National Retail Federation.
- A total of 2.6 million fraud reports, with a reported $10 billion loss, were filed with the Federal Trade Commission in 2023.
VPNRanks’ Predictions for Black Friday Scams in 2024
Based on the trends from 2023, the number of fraud cases and financial losses during Black Friday scams 2024 is expected to rise. With consumer spending likely to grow and scammers using increasingly sophisticated tactics, predictions for 2024 are as follows:
- Estimated Fraud Cases: The total number of fraud reports could surpass 2.8 million, reflecting an increase in online shopping and scam opportunities.
- Projected Financial Losses: Losses might climb to approximately $11 billion, driven by more complex and AI-driven scams targeting unsuspecting shoppers.
These projections emphasize the importance of heightened awareness and preventative measures during the 2024 shopping season.
The Growing Threat of Black Friday Scams in the UK
⚠️VPNRanks predicts Black Friday scams in 2024 to cost £12.5 million, with over 17,600 cases. This surge stems from AI-driven schemes and increased online shopping activity.
Data Collection
Black Friday scams in the UK have shown a troubling rise, with scammers targeting unsuspecting shoppers through various deceptive tactics. Here’s what the data reveals:
- Last Christmas, people in the UK were scammed out of more than £11.5 million, nearly £1 million more than the same period in 2022. (The Guardian)
- Fake clothing and high-end tech listings on social media were among the common methods used to trick victims. (The Guardian)
- Statistics from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau revealed over 16,000 cases of online shopping fraud between November 2023 and January 2024, with an average loss of £695 per victim. (The 420)
VPNRanks’ Predictions for Black Friday Scams in 2024
Black Friday scams in 2024 are expected to increase in sophistication, targeting more shoppers with AI-driven tactics and deceptive schemes. VPNRanks predicts a significant rise in reported cases and financial losses based on past trends:
- Total Losses: Estimated to reach £12.5 million, a noticeable increase from 2023.
- Reported Fraud Cases: Predicted to exceed 17,600, driven by more online shopping activity.
- Average Loss per Victim: Likely to rise to approximately £710, reflecting the growing scale of individual scams.
These predictions show that without proper awareness and safeguards, shoppers remain at high risk during the festive season.
Channels Scammers Used to Trick Shoppers
📧 VPNRanks predicts emails and messages could dominate Black Friday scams in 2024. Fake deals and phishing tactics will target shoppers directly, exploiting inboxes with malicious links.
Barclays research highlights the growing popularity of social shopping platforms like TikTok Shop and YouTube Shopping, with 12% of shoppers and 22% of those under 35 making purchases through these channels in the past year.
However, as shopping trends evolve, so do the tactics of scammers. Barclays’ analysis of scam claims since January 2021 reveals that 72% of purchase scams originate from social media, underscoring the urgent need for these platforms to enhance preventative measures and consumer protection.
Social media remains the most common channel for promoting fake deals, with 24.8% of shoppers identifying it as a key source, according to VPNRanks survey data.
While social media leads in scam prevalence, emails are also a significant concern, with 43% of those targeted encountering scams via email and 33% through social media in the past year.
Top 5 Channels Where Shoppers Spotted Purchase Scams in 2024
| Channel | Percentage of Scams Reported |
|---|---|
| 42% | |
| Social media sites and marketplaces | 33% |
| Text/messaging apps | 31% |
| Search engines | 21% |
| Second-hand marketplaces | 18% |
The rise in scams across various channels during Black Friday is further underscored by the alarming volume of spam messages detected. According to Kaspersky, 198,000 Black Friday-themed spam messages were identified in just the first two weeks of November.
As highlighted by The 420, the telecom company Three observed a significant rise in scam messages during last year’s Black Friday season, receiving around 3,500 daily reports throughout the period. Additionally, the company reported an ongoing increase in 2024, with 170,000 more scam messages per month compared to the previous year.
Adding to this concern, a VPNRanks survey reveals that 35.2% of shoppers find it difficult to identify phishing or scam emails, making them even more vulnerable to these sophisticated tactics during the Black Friday shopping frenzy.
This highlights how scammers are leveraging targeted emails and messages to lure shoppers with fake deals, making email the leading channel for fraudulent activities.
VPNRanks’ Predictions for Black Friday Scams in 2024
VPNRanks predicts that emails and messages could remain the top channel for scammers targeting shoppers during Black Friday 2024. With enticing fake deals and phishing tactics, scammers are likely to exploit inboxes more than ever this season.
This is because emails and messages provide a direct, personalized way to reach shoppers, making it easier to trick them into clicking on malicious links or sharing sensitive information.
Age Groups Most Affected by Black Friday Scams
Black Friday scam statistics reveal that scams don’t target just one demographic; people across various age groups fall victim to these schemes. However, some age groups are more vulnerable than others, as shown by recent data:
- National Fraud Intelligence Bureau analysis revealed that individuals aged 30-39 were the most affected, making up 23% of reports.
- The 40-49 age group followed closely, accounting for 20% of reports.
- The average age of victims was 42, demonstrating that no age group is entirely immune to these scams.
Source: The Guardian
The VPNRanks survey revealed that a significant portion of participants, 20% aged 25–34, were among the largest group of respondents, indicating they likely have knowledge about Black Friday scams and may have encountered one at least once.
These participants represented diverse regions, with 35.2% hailing from America, further showcasing the widespread nature of these scams across different demographics and locations.
Black Friday Scams to Watch Out For in 2024
Amid the growing risks of Black Friday scams, shoppers are taking proactive measures to protect themselves from fraud. Simple yet effective actions, such as avoiding unsolicited emails or messages, have become essential in staying safe during the shopping season.
The VPNRanks survey data reveals that 28.6% of consumers actively take these steps to reduce their vulnerability to scams.
1. Scam Ads on Social Media
According to The 420, 43% of Black Friday scam cases originated on social media, with 18.9% linked to online marketplaces. Scammers flood platforms like Facebook and Instagram with fake ads, leading shoppers to counterfeit sites that steal personal details. Always verify the source before engaging with any Black Friday offer.
2. Bogus Websites
Black Friday attracts countless fake websites mimicking trusted retailers, preying on shoppers seeking discounts. According to VPNRanks’ report, the number of targeted brands could reach 7,000+, making phishing attempts a major concern. Look for signs like incorrect URLs or missing HTTPS to stay protected.
3. AI-Generated Scams
The rise of AI has enabled scammers to craft highly convincing phishing emails and fake order confirmations. Recent research indicates that 60% of recipients fall victim to AI-generated phishing emails, a rate comparable to those created by human experts. ()
This sophistication makes it increasingly challenging for shoppers to distinguish between genuine and fraudulent communications.
4. Gift Card Scams
Black Friday deals often involve gift cards, making them a prime target for scammers. Fraudsters may ask for payments in gift cards, exploiting their untraceable nature.
As highlighted by VPNRanks, Apple and Target gift cards are the most frequently used in these scams—be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
5. Bogus Delivery Alerts
With the surge in online shopping during Black Friday, scammers send fake delivery notifications claiming extra fees are required to release packages. These alerts often contain phishing links to steal payment information. Always verify delivery details directly on the retailer’s official website.
Shocking Black Friday Scam Stories to Learn From
With Halloween behind us, the holiday shopping season is in full swing, but beware—online scams are lurking, ready to steal your Christmas cheer.
Last year, when Bed Bath & Beyond and Buy Buy Baby announced their closures, shoppers rushed to liquidation sales. However, some, like Sydney Joyave, fell victim to fake clearance websites promoted in social media ads. Joyave was thrilled to find deals offering up to 90% off but was left disappointed when her card was charged, and the site vanished.
Another common scam involves fake toolkits. Websites advertise Milwaukee and Dewalt toolkits for under $100, a fraction of their real cost, which often starts at over $100. ToolGuyd warns shoppers every year about these fake offers.
Fake retail websites with unbelievably low prices are among the top holiday scams. Cinthya Lavin of the BBB said,
We see a lot of issues when it comes to fake websites. Just because it’s advertised on social media doesn’t mean it’s legitimate.
Another big scam to watch for in November involves fraudulent schemes targeting your phone. Stay alert this season!
Source: WSBT
Expert Insights on Black Friday Scams: Trends and Prevention Tips
In this section, expert opinions highlight how Black Friday deal scams have evolved with AI-driven tactics and social media exploitation. Experts also provide actionable tips to help shoppers stay secure during the shopping frenzy:
1. Jake Moore
Jake Moore highlights the evolving tactics of scammers during Black Friday sales. He explains that fraudulent deals can appear through various channels, such as traditional phishing emails, fake advertisements on web pages, and even deceptive links on search engines.
He notes the growing sophistication of scams, emphasizing that social media is a significant risk factor, where advertised bargains often lack rigorous vetting.
The incorporation of AI technology into scams enables scammers to deploy convincing and highly targeted schemes that no longer bear the obvious spelling or grammatical errors of the past.
Moore warns that group chats and messaging apps amplify the problem, as people often trust and act on deals shared by friends or contacts—sometimes from compromised accounts.
He advises, “Making sure you don’t feel rushed into purchasing an item can save people from being scammed. Research and due diligence with new websites can also help people protect their hard-earned cash.”
2. Jacques van Wyk
Jacques van Wyk emphasizes that while Black Friday offers excellent deals, it is also a prime opportunity for scammers to exploit eager shoppers. He warns against falling for fake e-commerce websites, phishing emails, and deposit scams commonly found on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.
Van Wyk advises shoppers to avoid public Wi-Fi, verify seller authenticity, and never click on suspicious links in emails or ads. By following practical tips such as checking reviews, using trusted payment methods, and taking the time to plan purchases, shoppers can secure their bargains without falling victim to scams.
3. Burton Kelso
Burton Kelso warns of the growing threat of AI-driven scams during Black Friday, including phishing emails with realistic fake orders and tracking numbers designed to deceive shoppers. He advises avoiding clicking on suspicious links, using official retailer apps, and verifying sources through trusted channels to ensure safe transactions.
Additionally, he highlights the dangers of bogus charities, urging donors to avoid payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency and to donate directly on official charity websites.
To further enhance security, Kelso recommends enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) and monitoring bank accounts for unauthorized transactions to stay protected during the holiday shopping season.
4. Julio Marchi
Julio Marchi warns shoppers to stay vigilant against a wide range of Black Friday sales scams, from phishing emails and delivery scams to credit card skimming and fake reviews. He highlights that over 56% of Black Friday-related emails are designed to deceive, with tactics like fake Amazon order notifications and bogus delivery links becoming increasingly common.
Marchi advises avoiding unsolicited links, double-checking websites for legitimacy, and only making purchases over secure networks to safeguard personal and financial information. His insights emphasize the importance of cyber awareness to enjoy safe and stress-free holiday shopping.
5. Greg Caleo
Greg Caleo, is a leading advocate for cybersecurity awareness, particularly in mitigating risks during peak shopping periods like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. With his extensive experience, Greg emphasizes proactive measures to combat scams.
Through Cybermate’s innovative Psybersecurity” app, Greg provides award-winning training that equips individuals and organizations with tools to recognize and avoid scams such as fake delivery messages, fraudulent gift card requests, and too-good-to-be-true deals.
His commitment to creating a safer digital environment is a testament to his leadership in cybersecurity awareness.
6. Michael Ziegler
Michael Ziegler share some tips to avoid holiday scams/black friday scams.
- Stick to Trusted Retailers 🛍️: Buy from reputable sellers and verify reviews, contact details, and return policies for new sites.
- Inspect Links Carefully 🔗: Check URLs for authenticity, especially from emails or social media. Hover over links to preview destinations before clicking.
- Beware of Unrealistic Deals ❗: Cross-check prices across retailers; overly steep discounts may indicate a scam.
- Use Secure Payment Methods 💳: Avoid wire transfers or gift cards; opt for trusted methods like credit cards or PayPal.
- Monitor Bank Activity 🏦: Regularly review your statements for any unauthorized transactions after shopping.
- Spread Awareness 📢: Share these tips with friends and family to increase vigilance against scams.
The Methodology Behind VPNRanks’ Black Friday Scam Statistics
The following steps outline the data collection and analysis process used to compile Black Friday scam statistics, ensuring accuracy and reliability:
- Survey Distribution: A survey was shared across multiple platforms, including social media, email campaigns, and forums, to maximize reach and gather responses from a diverse audience. The survey was completed by over 1876 internet users, providing a robust sample size to ensure an accurate representation of consumer experiences with Black Friday scams.
- Data Collection: Historical data on Black Friday scams, spanning reported cases and financial losses from previous years, was meticulously compiled. This provided a solid foundation to identify evolving trends and patterns in scam tactics targeting shoppers during the holiday season.
- 2024 Predictions: By analyzing past data and survey findings, predictions for Black Friday 2024 were developed. These projections highlight anticipated scam tactics and financial impacts, equipping shoppers with foresight into potential risks this shopping season.
- Expert Opinions: Cybersecurity experts contributed valuable insights into the methods and strategies scammers use during Black Friday. Their advice provided actionable steps for consumers to recognize and avoid scams, enhancing the report’s practical value.
- Comprehensive Analysis: The findings from the survey, historical data, and expert insights were integrated to create a detailed, data-driven report. This report not only highlights the rising threat of Black Friday scams but also offers strategic tips to help shoppers navigate the season safely and confidently.
Explore More In-Depth Statistics and Reports by VPNRanks
- VPN Scams– Explore how scammers exploit fake VPN services to steal sensitive data under the guise of secure connections.
- Text Message Scams– Know the rising threat of phishing SMS, often posing as legitimate organizations to extract personal information.
- Cash App Scams– Understand the tactics used in fraudulent payment requests and fake giveaways targeting Cash App users.
- Facebook Marketplace Scams– Learn the methods scammers use to sell non-existent items or collect payments under false pretenses.
FAQs
What’s the secret behind Black Friday?
The secret behind Black Friday lies in its transformation during the late 1980s when retailers popularized the red-to-black” narrative. It marked the day stores turned profitable for the year, boosting sales significantly. Today, it’s celebrated as the biggest shopping day in the United States.
Why is Black Friday so cheap?
Black Friday is so cheap because retailers plan all year to clear overstock inventory and attract customers with deep discounts. It’s a chance to sell seasonal items like holiday decorations and gifts while boosting overall sales with irresistible deals.
Is Black Friday a real deal?
Yes, Black Friday is a real deal. In-store discounts average around 37% on Thanksgiving and Black Friday, while online deals offer similar savings at 34%, making it one of the best times for shoppers to save.
Is Black Friday a big con?
Many believe Black Friday is a big con, with two-thirds of Brits considering it a tactic by retailers to boost sales. A study of 2,000 adults found that 57% are skeptical about the authenticity of the discounts offered during the November sales.
Conclusion
Black Friday, while a time for incredible deals, also presents significant risks as scammers target eager shoppers. With AI-driven tactics and deceptive methods, the dangers are more sophisticated than ever. Shoppers must remain cautious and informed to enjoy a safe shopping experience.
VPNRanks survey reveals that 30.5% of shoppers have encountered a Black Friday scam, highlighting the prevalence of fraud. Predictions for 2024 show losses reaching $11 billion in the US, with over 2.8 million cases. These alarming numbers emphasize the need for awareness during the shopping season.
The Black Friday scam statistics stress the importance of vigilance while navigating deals. Shoppers should double-check offers, avoid suspicious links, and use trusted platforms for transactions. By staying alert, they can safeguard their finances and still enjoy Black Friday shopping.
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