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Cyber Monday Online Shopping Scams
Cyber Monday is one of the biggest shopping days of the year—and unfortunately, one of the biggest days for scammers. As more people hunt for deals online, fraudsters ramp up their efforts to trick shoppers with fake websites, phishing messages, and too-good-to-be-true offers.
Here are a few scams to keep on your radar as you shop this season, plus tips to help you stay protected.
1. Fake Online Stores
Scam sites pop up every year, often offering deep discounts on popular items. They look real, but once you pay, your order never arrives—or you get something completely different.
Protect yourself:
Stick to retailers you know. If the price feels suspiciously low, it probably is.
2. Phishing Emails & Fake Shipping Alerts
Scammers send emails or texts pretending to be from UPS, FedEx, Amazon or big-name stores. The messages look official and often ask you to “verify your order” or “fix a delivery issue.”
Protect yourself:
Don’t click links in unexpected messages. Go directly to the retailer’s website or app to check your order.
3. Malicious Ads & Social Media Deals
Fraudsters use ads on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or search engines to push fake products or bogus storefronts—especially during big shopping weekends.
Protect yourself:
Be cautious with ads from brands you’ve never heard of. Check the URL, reviews, and return policies before purchasing.
4. Fake QR Codes
QR codes are popping up everywhere during holiday promotions. Scammers use them to send people to malicious sites that steal personal information.
Protect yourself:
Only scan codes from trusted retailers. If you’re unsure where it leads, skip it.
5. “Ghost Sellers” on Marketplaces
On sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, scammers list items they don’t actually have. They’ll pressure you to pay quickly or send deposits upfront.
Protect yourself:
Avoid prepaying strangers. Choose secure payment methods and meet sellers in safe, public places when possible.
How to Stay Safe While Shopping
A few simple habits go a long way:
- Use strong, unique passwords and turn on two-factor authentication.
- Pay with credit, not debit—it offers better fraud protection.
- Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi.
- Keep an eye on your accounts and turn on alerts in the Primis app.
- Trust your gut. If something feels off, pause and double-check.
Shop Smart. Stay Safe.
Cyber Monday should be fun—not stressful. With a little caution and the right tools, you can enjoy the deals and keep your information secure. And if you ever notice something suspicious on your account, our team is here to help.
Better banking starts with better protection.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.