Black Friday 2024

Tips to shop securely during Black Friday

As Black Friday approaches, we’re sharing important tips to help you stay safe while shopping. Fraudsters see this busy shopping season as a prime opportunity to exploit increased online activity. Here’s what you need to know to shop securely and protect your finances.

Common Black Friday scams

  • Fake retail websites and discounts: Scammers create convincing fake websites offering incredible discounts. If it seems too good to be true, it often is.
  • Phishing emails and texts: These mimic trusted retailers, including fake discount codes and links that steal personal information and payment details. Missed parcel scams seem to be what fraudsters are heavily focusing on.
  • Social media ads and marketplaces: Fraudsters frequently use ads or listings on platforms to lure victims into sending payments for non-existent goods.
  • Counterfeit gift cards: Offers to ‘pre-load’ funds onto gift cards at discounted prices are a red flag.

 

Tips to stay safe

  • Verify the website: Check for reviews on platforms like Trustpilot before making any purchases. Be cautious with websites you are unfamiliar with.
  • Avoid bank transfers: Be wary if a seller asks you to pay directly via bank transfer or through payment apps, rather than through secure payment options.
  • Beware of suspicious emails: Check the sender’s address for inconsistencies and avoid clicking on links from unknown sources. Poor grammar or spelling errors are common signs of phishing.
  • Use secure networks: Only shop on private Wi-Fi networks and avoid public hotspots to reduce the risk of data interception.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA on your email and bank accounts for an extra layer of security.

 

Important reminder

Falling victim to these scams can expose your personal details, leading to further risks like bank impersonation calls. Scammers may use your stolen information to pose as Weatherbys, convincing you that your account is at risk and tricking you into divulging sensitive details or transferring funds.

If you suspect a transaction or communication might be fraudulent, please speak to your private banking team or Relationship Manager in the first instance. You can also contact the Private Bank on +44 (0)1933 543 600 or the Racing Bank on +44 (0)1933 543 543.

 

Remember…

  • We will never ask you for full banking details, one-time passcodes (OTPs) or online banking passwords over email, text or by unsolicited calls.
  • The Fraud Team will never contact you directly; any calls will always be arranged through your private banking team or Relationship Manager.