As Black Friday and the Christmas holiday season approach, the risk of falling victim to cyber scams increases exponentially. In response, the National Police has launched a campaign to alert the public about the twelve most common digital fraud schemes detected during the shopping and sales season.
The initiative utilises a series of one-minute micropodcasts featuring straightforward explanations from agents specialising in the Central Cybercrime Unit, who offer practical advice on how to identify and avoid these frauds.
The concise format facilitates distribution across official social media channels, including WhatsApp, X, Facebook, and podcast platforms, aiming to reach as many people as possible and influence their online shopping behaviour.
The mass discount season attracts millions of consumers making electronic payments, increasing the attack surface for cybercriminals focused on financial fraud. Experts warn that there is 'a scam for every age range', with techniques adapted to various profiles to maximise success.
Among the most concerning frauds is skimming, which involves stealing bank card data during e-commerce transactions. This technique can result in victims having their bank accounts emptied with little chance of quick recovery.
Understanding skimming and other common scams
The first micropodcast of the campaign focuses on skimming, detailing how criminals send fake messages to potential victims whilst posing as delivery companies.
These fraudulent SMS messages or emails notify the recipient of a supposed failed delivery attempt and invite them to click on a link to reschedule. However, the fraudulent website is a replica of the official one, designed to capture personal and banking details that are later used for theft of funds.
Additionally, the campaign alerts about the recent phenomenon called the "likes scam", in which victims are offered easy money for social media interactions, before being convinced to make fraudulent investments with promises of high returns that never materialise.
Key recommendations to reduce risks and protect your money
The main recommendations issued aim to preserve security during online shopping and payments:
- Only purchase from trusted physical or digital stores, verifying that the website has an encryption certificate (https).
- Avoid direct transfers and payments through unregulated methods, favouring the use of prepaid cards or credit cards that offer greater protection.
- Be wary of urgent requests that force quick decisions or immediate deliveries, especially if they demand sensitive documentation or access keys.
- Don't click on links received via SMS or suspicious messages that simulate being from legitimate companies without first confirming the source.
These habits help minimise the chances of falling into traps that can cause anything from small thefts to serious financial losses. "They can empty your bank account," warn cybercrime experts, emphasising the importance of vigilance during the shopping season.