Leading IT solutions provider CMTG is urging Australians to remain vigilant leading up to the annual Black Friday sales, in an effort to reduce online scams.
According to Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Scamwatch, Australian consumers lost over $14.9 million to online shopping scams last year.
CMTG Managing Director Carl Filipo said it is vital for shoppers to be aware about opportunistic scammers and cybercrime, particularly when buying gifts or products in the Black Friday sales.
“With e-commerce experiencing immense growth over the last few years, everyone needs to take extra precautions when shopping online,” Carl said.
“Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, including going to the extent of creating fake online stores, which are sometimes hard to identify.
“With thousands of Australians expected to jump online during the Black Friday sales, it’s vital shoppers remain alert.”
Carl’s advice to those considering online shopping during the Black Friday period is to buy from trusted websites, avoid clicking on social media adverts and always use a secure payment method.
“Be wary of unusually low-priced goods and requests for payments upfront, and never hand over your financial information or personal details if you’re unsure,” Carl said.
“Also, as tempting as it is when you see a bargain online, try not to make quick decisions around your purchases – if you feel there’s a sense of urgency for you to buy a product, then it is likely a scam.”
Carl said the festive season is a time fraudsters target consumers, warning travel scams and parcel delivery scams are on the rise.
“Seasonal scams such as attractive holiday promotions and fake delivery notifications are incredibly common during the Christmas period and Boxing Day sales,” Carl explained.
“This type of scam traps consumers into purchasing something, or unknowingly downloading malware which enables scammers to access personal information.”
Carl stressed the importance of reviewing cyber-security measures prior to large shopping events such as Black Friday and Christmas, to ensure private data is protected.
“Cyber security must be a priority for all Australians as we enter the festive season,” he said.
“End-user devices, like laptops and smartphones, should be equipped with the latest protections, such as Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems.
“For those without the latest cybersecurity protections, now is the time to act—don’t wait until the new year to secure your devices, as scammers are increasingly sophisticated, and anyone can be a target.”
