Lanarkshire shoppers are being warned over online scams after it was Scots are losing almost £2,000 a day to cyber criminals as Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach.
Advice Direct Scotland, which operates the national service consumeradvice.scot, is urging shoppers to stay vigilant as Christmas bargain hunting begins.
Between April and November this year, 934 Scots sought assistance from the charity after losing more than £495,111 to online fraud — an average loss of £530 per person.
This comes on top of losses exceeding £617,367 among 1,550 people in 2023, bringing the total to £1.1 million, or £1,972 per day.
The scale of the problem likely to be worse than indicated, as the figures do not account for unreported cases or those directly reported to the police.
Experts warn that fraudsters are increasingly using new tactics to target struggling Scots seeking bargains amid the cost-of-living crisis.
Previously, one of the main signs of a digital scam was poor spelling or grammar.
But now, scammers can use AI platforms like ChatGPT, which employ natural language processing to create human-like dialogue, making their messages more believable.
They can also use AI image generators to create fake celebrity endorsements that appear real.
Most retailers are already running a series of festive offers ahead of Black Friday, which this year falls on November 29.
Hazel Knowles, senior project lead for Advice Direct Scotland, said: “At this time of year, we’re all shopping online more than ever, and with the cost-of-living crisis straining household budgets, it’s understandable that many people will be looking for a Black Friday bargain.
“Unfortunately, we’re aware that Scots have already lost at least £1.1 million in online scams since last year. However, this is a significantly underreported problem.
“Criminals are always seeking new opportunities, including through social media, to target people and steal personal information, bank details, or money.
“AI is making emails and images more convincing, so it’s now harder to spot scams.
“Shoppers need to check who they’re buying from to ensure their purchases are safe and worth the money.
“It’s easy to feel rushed when you see a discount, but time-limited offers can pressure shoppers into ignoring warning signs.
“The key advice is to take your time and check before buying. Always ensure you’re on an official website, as links may lead to fake sites.
“If you need help, contact our advisers for free and impartial advice. Report any scams or suspicious messages using our ScamWatch tool at www.scamwatch.scot.”
Scammers exploit shoppers’ vulnerability and distraction, especially during timed Black Friday sales, pressuring victims into parting with money, bank details or personal information.
Consumers are being urged to be wary of fake deals presented through phishing emails, texts, and social media adverts.
Another tactic involves bogus websites impersonating legitimate ones, accepting payment but failing to deliver goods.
Criminals also employ methods such as selling counterfeit and empty gift cards and creating fake order confirmation pages.
Free, impartial and practical advice is available to anyone in Scotland through Advice Direct Scotland’s consumeradvice.scot service.
Consumers can seek help in a number of different ways: freephone 0808 164 6000, or online through web chat and email at www.consumeradvice.scot.
The simple ScamWatch Quick Reporting Tool is also available to report suspected scams and suspicious activity at www.scamwatch.scot.
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