Holiday Shopping Scams Rise During Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Officials Warn

NEW YORK — November 20, 2025 — As Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach, authorities are warning consumers to be vigilant against a surge in holiday shopping scams that exploit leaked personal information. Criminals are increasingly targeting shoppers with fraudulent websites and phishing schemes designed to steal sensitive data and financial details, officials said.

According to cybersecurity experts, the holiday season presents a prime opportunity for scammers who capitalize on the high volume of online transactions and heightened consumer spending. Many of these scams involve fake online stores that mimic legitimate retailers, offering deals that are too good to be true. Once shoppers enter their personal or payment information, criminals can use the data for identity theft or unauthorized purchases.

Phishing attacks have also become more sophisticated, with scammers sending emails or text messages that appear to come from trusted companies. These messages often contain links to counterfeit websites or prompt recipients to provide login credentials, credit card numbers, or other private information.

Authorities recommend several precautions to help consumers protect themselves during the holiday shopping period. Shoppers should verify the authenticity of websites before making purchases by checking for secure connections (https://), researching retailer reviews, and avoiding unfamiliar links received via unsolicited emails or messages. Using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication on shopping accounts can further reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Experts also advise consumers to monitor their bank and credit card statements closely for any suspicious activity. Many financial institutions offer alerts for unusual transactions, which can provide an early warning of potential fraud.

In addition, officials encourage shoppers to be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks for online purchases, as these connections can be less secure and more vulnerable to interception by cybercriminals.

Retailers are also stepping up efforts to combat fraud during the holiday season by enhancing website security measures and educating customers about common scams. However, officials emphasize that consumer awareness remains a critical line of defense.

With millions of Americans expected to shop online during the upcoming holiday sales events, experts say taking proactive steps to protect personal data is essential to avoid falling victim to scams. “Being cautious and informed can significantly reduce the chances of becoming a target,” cybersecurity specialists said.

As the holiday shopping season intensifies, consumers are urged to remain alert and prioritize data security to ensure a safe and successful shopping experience.