Google has released a significant update, and individuals embarking on online shopping this month should take heed. With November marking the start of Black Friday deals from major retailers worldwide, consumers can expect enticing offers, but they also need to be wary of potential scams.
According to Google’s latest advisory on fraud and scams, cybercriminals often intensify their fraudulent activities during peak shopping seasons like Black Friday and Cyber Monday to exploit heightened consumer demand. These malicious actors aim to deceive unsuspecting shoppers with false offers, leading to financial loss and data breaches.
To stay safe, online shoppers and email users are advised to be cautious of deals or notifications that seem suspicious or too good to be true. Google warns that scammers employ sophisticated tactics, such as creating fake online stores, impersonating well-known brands, and running deceptive ad campaigns to lure in victims.
During Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there is also a higher risk of falling victim to phishing or smishing campaigns, where criminals attempt to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information by posing as legitimate sources. Common tactics include fake delivery notifications or prize announcements to deceive recipients.
Google is actively combatting these scams with advanced technology to block fake emails and websites. Despite these efforts, staying vigilant is crucial. Google has introduced enhanced protections against package tracking scams for users of specific devices like Google Pixel 9, offering additional defense through local models and Safe Browsing features in Chrome.
Furthermore, Google has implemented additional safeguards for Google Messages users to protect against various scam tactics. Remaining cautious and utilizing security features can help consumers safeguard themselves during the holiday shopping season.