Charlotte, North Carolina, November 28, 2025
As the holiday season approaches, online shoppers are increasingly targeted by sophisticated scams that offer deals too good to be true. Cybersecurity experts warn that fake websites and social media ads are mimicking legitimate retailers, luring consumers into providing personal information or making purchases that lead to counterfeit products. A recent study reveals one in three Americans have fallen victim to online scams during this time. Experts recommend caution and vigilance when shopping online, advising to double-check URLs and use secure payment methods.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Beware: Online Shopping Scams Rise During the Holiday Season
Online shoppers are being increasingly targeted by sophisticated scams offering deals that seem too good to be true, especially during the holiday season. As the festivities approach, consumers are eager to hunt for bargains, but this eagerness is being exploited by sophisticated cybercriminals.
Cybersecurity experts warn that scammers are creating convincing fake websites and social media ads that mimic legitimate retailers. These fraudulent platforms often advertise deep discounts on popular items, luring shoppers into providing personal and financial information or making purchases that result in counterfeit or subpar products. The threat is especially prevalent during the holiday shopping season when consumers are actively looking for deals.
Scams on the Rise
Recent studies highlight the growing prevalence of such scams. A report from McAfee’s 2024 Global Holiday Shopping Scams Study reveals that one in three Americans have fallen victim to an online scam during the holiday season, with nearly 10% losing over $1,000. The study also notes that 60% of Americans are more concerned about holiday scams this year due to the rise of AI-powered deepfakes, indicating a shift in the complexity of scams consumers face. Additionally, 20% of respondents encountered scams via text messages, and 16% through social media platforms.
Staying Vigilant While Shopping Online
Experts emphasize the importance of vigilance when shopping online. They advise consumers to double-check URLs before entering personal information and remain skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. Shopping through official channels is crucial. Ensuring secure payment methods—such as credit cards—can minimize financial risks. Shoppers are also encouraged to be cautious of unsolicited emails, texts, or social media ads offering deals from unfamiliar sources.
Payment Safety Tips
Authorities caution against using alternative payment methods, such as direct bank transfers or payment apps that provide no buyer protection, as these can often indicate scams. Using credit cards or trusted payment providers like PayPal is recommended, as they offer better protection against fraudulent transactions.
Conclusion: Protecting Yourself During the Holidays
In summary, while the allure of significant discounts during the holiday season is strong, consumers must remain vigilant to avoid falling victim to online shopping scams. By staying informed and cautious, shoppers can protect themselves from fraudulent schemes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday shopping experience. Supporting local businesses can also help keep our community vibrant and resilient amidst this digital landscape.
What are the common signs of an online shopping scam?
Common signs include deals that seem too good to be true, unfamiliar websites, recently created social media profiles, and exclusively five-star reviews. Scammers often create fake websites and social media ads that appear to offer expensive or high-demand products at unbelievably low prices to lure in victims. These fraudulent sites often steal photos, branding, and logos from legitimate businesses to appear authentic. Once shoppers make a purchase, scammers may steal personal or financial information, such as credit card details, or send counterfeit or low-quality products instead of what was advertised.
How can I protect myself from online shopping scams?
To protect yourself, double-check URLs before entering personal information, be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true, and shop through official channels. Use secure payment methods, such as credit cards, to minimize financial risk. Avoid clicking on unsolicited links or messages, and ensure any apps downloaded are from verified sources. Additionally, be cautious of alternative payment methods, such as direct bank transfers or payment apps that don’t offer buyer protection, as these can be indicative of scams. Use credit cards or trusted payment providers like PayPal, which offer better protection against fraudulent transactions.
What should I do if I suspect I’ve been scammed?
If you suspect you’ve been scammed, contact your bank or payment provider immediately to report the fraudulent transaction and prevent further unauthorized charges. Additionally, file a report with your local law enforcement agency and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help authorities investigate and potentially recover lost funds.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fake Websites | Scammers create convincing replicas of legitimate retailer websites to steal personal and financial information. These sites often advertise deep discounts on popular items, luring shoppers into providing sensitive data or making purchases that result in counterfeit or subpar products. |
| Social Media Ads | Fraudulent ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram promote fake sales or “closing down” offers, using urgency to entice consumers into making quick decisions without verifying the legitimacy of the offer. |
| Phishing Emails and Texts | Scammers send fake emails or texts posing as trusted retailers, offering deals that direct victims to malicious websites designed to steal personal information or install malware. |
| Unusual Payment Methods | Requests for payment via direct bank transfers or payment apps that don’t offer buyer protection can be indicative of scams. Legitimate retailers typically accept credit cards or trusted payment providers like PayPal. |
| Counterfeit Products | Even if products are delivered, they may be counterfeit or of inferior quality, not matching the advertised items. Scammers often send counterfeit or low-quality products instead of what was advertised. |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
