Holiday Shopping Alert: The FBI Urges Consumers to Beware of Online Scams
The holiday season is a time for joy, giving, and of course, shopping. But as millions of people rush to snag the best deals online, scammers are also gearing up for a spike in activity. Recent reports paint a worrying picture: scam websites have surged by a staggering 89% compared to last year, and almost 80% of shopping offers flooding inboxes are fraudulent. Even Google search results have been manipulated to lead unsuspecting shoppers to malicious sites.
In response to this alarming trend, the FBI has issued an urgent warning, urging holiday shoppers to exercise extreme caution when making purchases online. With Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the rest of the holiday season just around the corner, the agency’s advice is crucial for ensuring a safe and scam-free shopping experience.
Seven Essential Tips to Safeguard Your Holiday Purchases
The FBI emphasizes that prevention is key in protecting yourself from online scams. By following these seven essential tips, shoppers can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to fraud:
1. Scrutinize Website URLs
Always double-check a website’s URL before entering any personal or financial information. Legitimate websites will have “https” in the address bar and a padlock symbol, indicating a secure connection. If a URL looks suspicious or unfamiliar, steer clear.
2. Research Before You Click ‘Buy’
Resist the temptation of impulse purchases from unfamiliar websites. Take the time to thoroughly research sellers and products. Look for reviews from multiple sources, but be aware that fake reviews can be prevalent. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Exercise Caution on Auction Sites
Auction platforms can be a breeding ground for scams. Be wary of sellers with low or no ratings, and opt for those with a history of completed transactions and positive feedback. Remember, a bargain is only good if the product is genuine and delivered.
4. Beware of Unauthorized Dealers
Be skeptical of sellers claiming to be authorized dealers or factory representatives for popular items, especially in countries where such deals are unlikely. These fraudulent sellers often take payments and disappear, leaving you empty-handed. If a deal seems unbelievably good, investigate further.
5. Question Overseas Sellers
If a seller claims to be based in the US but provides excuses for being unavailable (like being on business overseas), proceed with caution. Legitimate businesses typically don’t have “emergencies” that prevent them from communicating with customers.
6. Beware Unconventional Shipping
Avoid websites that offer unusual shipping arrangements, promise to bypass customs checks, or pressure you into using unfamiliar payment methods. These are often red flags for scams. Stick with reputable shipping methods and use secure payment options like credit cards, which offer better protection.
What steps can consumers take to protect themselves from online shopping scams?
## Holiday Shopping Alert: The FBI Urges Consumers to Beware of Online Scams
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. The holiday season is upon us, and while many are looking forward to finding the perfect gifts, the FBI is warning shoppers about a surge in online scams. To help us understand what consumers need to know, we’re joined by Special Agent Alex Reed, from the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. Welcome to the show, Agent Alex Reed.
**Agent Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me.
**Interviewer:**Agent Alex Reed, the FBI has issued an urgent warning about a dramatic increase in online scams targeting holiday shoppers. Can you tell us more about what’s happening?
**Agent Alex Reed:** Absolutely. We’ve seen a troubling rise in scam websites. According to recent reports, these sites have surged by a staggering 89% compared to last year [[1](https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/pittsburgh/news/press-releases/fbi-warning-tis-the-season-for-holiday-scams-1)]. The vast majority of shopping deals flooding inboxes are also fraudulent, nearly 80% by some estimates.
**Interviewer:** That’s incredibly alarming. What tricks are these scammers using to target people?
**Agent Alex Reed:** They’re using a variety of tactics. Many scammers send phishing emails offering incredible deals that are just too good to be true. Others create fake websites that look very similar to legitimate online retailers. They might even manipulate Google search results to mislead shoppers.
**Interviewer:** So, what can consumers do to protect themselves?
**Agent Alex Reed:** Prevention is key. The FBI recommends seven essential tips for safe online shopping:
**1. Scrutinize website URLs:
Look for “https” in the address bar and a padlock icon.
**2. Be wary of unrealistically low prices:** If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
**3. Only shop on secure websites:**
Look for the padlock icon and “https” in the URL.
**4. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication:**
Protect your accounts from unauthorized access.
**5. Be cautious about clicking on links in emails or texts:**
Verify the sender and hover over links to see the actual URL.
**6. Use a credit card instead of a debit card for online purchases:**
Credit cards offer better fraud protection.
**7. Keep your software updated:**
Updates often include security patches that protect against scams.
**Interviewer:** That’s great advice, Agent Alex Reed. Thank you for sharing these tips with our viewers. We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.
**Agent Alex Reed:** You’re welcome. Stay safe out there.