Avoid scams this Black Friday
Image source: Flickr
If you plan on using online platforms this Black Friday, make sure you take note of these tips to avoid being scammed
Avoid scams this Black Friday
Image source: Flickr
It’s finally Black Friday BUT consumers shopping for those major bargains have been warned to be on the lookout for online scams.
While malls will be filled to capacity this coming Black Friday, online platforms have also seen an overwhelming increase over the years in South Africa. Part of it is attributed to the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, during which many people spent most of their time indoors and had no choice but to make use of online platforms like Takealot and Checkers’ Sixty60 app.
With Black Friday and Cyber Monday taking place on 26 and 29 November respectively, the Ombudsman for Banking Services, Reana Steyn has warned South Africans to be wary of various scams they could fall victim to, as criminals are always waiting to take advantage during this period.
“While it may be considered the perfect time for shoppers to take advantage of these discounts, the dangers of falling victim to the various scams out there is heightened and can unfortunately not be divorced from these Black November offers,” Steyn said.
If you’re planning on making use of online platforms this Black Friday, make sure you take note of the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of clever scammers seeking to make a quick buck. According to the ombudsman:
Vishing is a form of phishing during which a type of message — such as an email, text, phone call or direct-chat message — appears to be from a reputable company, with the aim of inducing consumers to reveal personal information, such as bank details and credit card numbers. This type of scam has gained momentum and will likely be practiced this Black Friday towards unsuspecting South Africans.
These tips are courtersy of the Ombudsman for Banking Services.