Black Friday and Cyber Monday are highly anticipated days for consumers looking to “stretch their dollars” with lower prices on physical and digital purchases.   

However, these are also dates fraudsters mark on their calendars as well, and use  these times to exploit consumers with many tactics, including fictitious websites, phishing (communications that seem legitimate, but try to access sensitive data to steal money), and shopping scams. In other words, offers can become traps if we’re not aware of them.   

How can we avoid falling victim to these schemes? Here are some recommendations:  
  • Be suspicious of messages with links promising “exclusive offers” if they don’t come from trusted sellers – you can check government records to verify if the business is legitimate, as well as confirm their address, phone number and official website.   

  • Opt to buy directly from official apps or pages. While it’s true that shopping on social networks is very convenient and fast, the safest thing to do is to make your purchases on the establishment’s app or official website.   

  • Use virtual cards or platforms with buyer protection: Virtual cards add an extra layer of security, as they create unique account numbers, which reduces fraud in the event of data theft

  • Activate two-factor authentication on your payment methods: Even if   someone has your password but doesn’t know your key, they won’t be able to access your information.

  • Review your account statement after every purchase: And always keep your receipts. That way you’ll know if you’re charged the correct amount, or if your card and information are being used for other purchases you didn’t authorize.  

  • Beware of messages from the “postal service”: One form of fraud is to notify you that you have a “package” that couldn’t be delivered. Don’t click on the link. If you’re really expecting something, go to your online purchase receipt to track it through official channels. 

Everyone likes a good offer…unless it’s accompanied by fraud. At FirstBank, we  
want you to take advantage of great prices, without ever putting your security at  
risk for a discount. Be careful!