KENT POLICE - Black Friday/Cyber Monday Fraud Alert

Information source: Kent Police, Prevent And Protect Fraud Officer, Prevent And Protect Fraud Team) via My Community Voice

Criminals take advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday events to commit online shopping fraud!

Black Friday: Friday 28th November 2025

Cyber Monday: Monday 1st December 2025

Common Online Shopping Fraud tactics:

• Brand impersonation: Criminals copy brand logos, website layouts, and product images to entice shoppers into entering payment details.
• Too-good-to-be-true deals: Unrealistic discounts on popular items like electronics, designer clothing, or footwear.
• Fake delivery notifications: Emails or texts claiming a delivery issue, prompting shoppers to click malicious links and provide payment details.
• Malicious ads: Fraudulent promotions on search engines or social media that redirect shoppers to scam websites.

• Consumer urgency: Shoppers are pressured to act quickly on limited-time deals, which lowers their guard against suspicious websites or emails.

How to stay safe when shopping online:

• Buy from trusted retailers: Shop on well-known websites.
• Beware of “too good to be true” deals: If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
• Check reviews: Search for independent reviews before buying from unfamiliar sites. Use tools such as ScamAdviser.com to check a website is genuine.
• Use secure payment methods: If possible, pay by credit card as they offer stronger consumer protection than debit cards.
• Look for HTTPS: Ensure the website has a secure connection (there should be a padlock symbol in the URL bar).
• Avoid clicking on suspicious links: Don’t click on links in unsolicited emails, texts or social media ads pushing urgent deals.
• Update devices: Keep your phone, tablet, or computer software up to date to protect against malware.
• Keep records: Save receipts, order confirmations, and screenshots of deals in case you need to dispute charges.

If you suspect fraud, report it to your bank(s) immediately so they can block fraudulent transactions and protect your money.

If you have been a victim of fraud:

Report to Action Fraud - The UKs national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.

📞 Phone: 0300 123 2040

Monday–Friday, 8am–8pm

🌐 Online reporting: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk

Stay safe this Black Friday and Cyber Monday!