Shoppers are warned to beware of online shopping scams this Black Friday - especially around clothes, shoes and games consoles.
Experts at Lloyds Bank says the risk to online customers will rise by a third as the popular shopping event comes round.
The big risk is what banks call purchase scams - when someone is tricked into sending money directly to someone else’s account via bank transfer.
These scams have already risen in volume by 14% this year, with the average victim losing £500.
These scams often start on platforms such as Instagram or Facebook Marketplace, with victims lured in by the promise of cut-price or hard-to-find goods.
Purchase scams are the most common type of authorised fraud, with people aged 25 to 34 most likely to fall victim.
Lloyds Bank says the rate of these frauds around Black Friday and Cyber Monday is 29% higher than normal.
The research also reveals that buying different items creates different risks.
Reported scams from those buying clothes were up by 646%, with scam victims losing £193 on average.
Items to be wary of include jackets and tracksuits, Lloyds said.
Cases involving shoes and trainers rose by 291%, with £148 being the typical loss.
One of the most common brands used to lure in victims is Nike.
Fraud linked to the purchase of gaming consoles was up by 172% - with shoppers typically losing £176 to scammers.
Many cases involve the Nintendo Switch or Sony Playstation 5, which remains in short supply through genuine retailers.
Lloyds Bank fraud prevention director Liz Ziegler said: “With shoppers even more eager to bag a bargain this Black Friday given the cost of living squeeze, fraudsters will be primed to cash in and trick victims out of their hard-earned cash.
“Online shopping scams come in all shapes and sizes, but the vast majority start with items advertised on social media, where it’s too easy for fraudsters to use fake profiles and advertise items that don’t exist.
“When shopping online, the best way stay safe is to buy from a trusted retailer, and always pay by card for the greatest protection.
“If you’re unable to do those things, that should be a big red flag that you’re about to get scammed.”
How to stay safe from purchase scams
Lloyds had some tips to help shoppers spot purchase frauds this Black Friday.
- Always use your debit or credit card when you buy online. This helps to protect your money should anything go wrong.
- Fraudsters use social media to post scam offers. They can even send them straight to your inbox. Always search for deals yourself.
- Check any offer that comes by text or email to make sure it's genuine. Call the sender to find out using a number you trust, not one in a message. Or visit the website to check. Never click on a link without checking first.
- Low prices and great deals can hide scams. See if you can find them elsewhere. And remember, if an item is selling out, fraudsters can charge more to trick desperate buyers.
- Make sure a seller or website is genuine. Look for good reviews from different buyers. Be wary of mixed, bad or no reviews at all. It's better to buy from a trusted retailer.
- Ask questions before you buy. If an item is expensive, offer to pay a deposit. If a seller can't give any details about an item or tries to rush you into paying, it’s probably a scam.
