Black Friday 2025 is approaching fast, set to kick off on November 28. While this annual shopping extravaganza excites bargain hunters, it also raises concerns for consumers as cybercriminals seize the opportunity to deploy scams during the shopping frenzy.
One prevalent threat is delivery scams, where scammers exploit the high volume of online orders by sending deceptive messages related to missed deliveries or purchases. To safeguard consumers, O2 has issued a crucial warning, emphasizing the need to remain vigilant.
O2 highlighted that a significant portion of shoppers (25%) tend to forget their purchases until they arrive, making them susceptible to falling for delivery scam texts. In response, Virgin Media O2 has implemented advanced AI and firewall technologies to intercept scam calls and texts, successfully blocking millions of fraudulent messages, including fake delivery notifications.
To enhance consumer safety, O2 has shared five essential tips to prevent falling victim to scams during the Black Friday rush:
1. Keep a record of your orders to detect fake confirmations easily.
2. Verify suspicious links before clicking, especially those from unfamiliar sources or with questionable URLs.
3. Be cautious of urgent payment requests, as genuine delivery companies do not demand instant payments via text.
4. Verify sender details, ensuring messages from trusted couriers are accurately displayed.
5. Exercise caution with vague messages that lack specific references to orders or origins.
James Harwood, Fraud Prevention Strategy Lead at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the need for vigilance during the festive shopping season, urging consumers to report any suspicious activity promptly. As the shopping frenzy approaches, staying alert and following these guidelines can help consumers steer clear of potential scams and enjoy a safe shopping experience.