Holiday Shopping Is Getting Riskier Here’s Why You Need to Stay Vigilant Now

As Black Friday and Cyber Monday draw near, excitement for big deals is rising but so is the risk of online scams. Security experts are sounding the alarm that this year’s holiday season may be one of the most dangerous yet for digital shoppers. Fraudulent ads, fake online stores, and AI-generated scams are multiplying at a pace never seen before, creating a perfect storm for unsuspecting consumers.

According to cybersecurity specialists, malicious advertisements are now flooding platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and even reputable search engines. The growth of artificial intelligence has dramatically lowered the barrier for cybercriminals. What once required technical expertise can now be executed by low-skilled attackers using readily available AI tools. These tools help scammers mimic legitimate brands, craft near-perfect phishing messages, and generate highly convincing fake websites making it harder for people to tell real from deceptive.

The advice from experts is clear: avoid searching for deals through search engines or social media, where fraudulent ads frequently appear. Instead, go directly to known and trusted retailers. Consumers are urged to check URLs carefully, be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true, and monitor credit card activity closely for unexpected transactions. This year, even younger, tech-savvy generations are falling victim to sophisticated scams because the digital environment feels familiar and safe an assumption scammers are exploiting.

Financial crime specialists are also warning shoppers to be extra careful of a common tactic used during the holidays: false urgency. Scammers often push countdown timers, “limited time deals,” or aggressive “act now” messages designed to pressure victims into making quick decisions. Parents are encouraged to keep a close eye on purchases made through social media apps, especially where children may have access to payment methods.

Experts emphasize that victims should not feel embarrassed. Anyone who suspects they’ve been scammed is encouraged to immediately report the incident to their bank, financial institution, or a trusted family member. Using credit cards instead of debit cards also provides an additional layer of protection, offering a better chance of stopping fraudulent transactions before funds are lost.

In an environment where online deception is harder to detect than ever, organizations and consumers alike need to strengthen their digital defenses. This is where cybersecurity partners play a crucial role. Directpath Global Technologies Inc. (DGT) supports businesses through solutions such as MTD, XDR, VAPT, SOC 2 readiness, VRMaaS, WAF, and vCISO advisory. With the added capabilities of DGT’s Artificial Intelligence Division, organizations can enhance not only their cybersecurity strategy but also improve operational efficiency helping them stay ahead of evolving digital threats during high-risk periods like the holiday season.

Holiday shopping should be enjoyable, not stressful. Staying cautious, informed, and protected is the best way to ensure the excitement of the season isn’t overshadowed by preventable digital scams. Source: CBC News