Urgent Warning: Beware of Black Friday Scams and Cloned Sites

UPDATE: As Black Friday sales kick off today, consumers are facing an urgent warning about a surge in online scams and cloned websites. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has urged shoppers to remain “extra vigilant” against offers that seem “too good to be true.”

With nearly 40% of shoppers expected to make purchases today, the CCPC cautions that scammers are exploiting the shopping frenzy. Authorities emphasize that ads on social media platforms are prime hunting grounds for fraudsters using convincing replicas of legitimate websites to deceive consumers.

One troubling case highlighted by the CCPC involved a consumer who lost €125 after believing he was purchasing an armchair from a well-known retailer, only to be redirected to a cloned site. Another victim reported losing €320 for shelving from a social media ad that led to a non-responsive vendor. These incidents underscore the importance of verifying websites and checking independent reviews before making any purchases.

In a stark reminder, the CCPC advises shoppers to stick to official retailer websites or apps instead of clicking links on social media.

“Do your research, take your time, and don’t take risks, no matter how tempting the deal,”

warned a CCPC spokesperson.

Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to pressure consumers into hasty decisions. If something feels off or offers unusually large discounts, shoppers should pause and reassess before proceeding. The CCPC also highlights the risk of unfamiliar websites, newly created social media profiles, and suspiciously positive reviews.

Payment methods matter too; consumers should use credit or debit cards or trusted services like PayPal instead of direct bank transfers. If you suspect you’ve been scammed, contact your bank immediately and consider freezing your card to prevent further unauthorized transactions.

As Black Friday approaches, An Garda Síochána is on high alert for scam operations. Consumers can report suspicious activities to their local garda station. In addition, research from the CCPC reveals that 63% of consumers doubt the accuracy of pre-sale prices, and 28% are influenced by social media recommendations, a figure that rises to 40% among those aged 15 to 24.

Mick Moran, CEO of the Irish Internet Hotline, warns that the upcoming weekend will see an uptick in online scams. He advises shoppers to only purchase from trusted brands, especially avoiding products advertised on social media.

Moreover, the Bank of Ireland reported a staggering 47% increase in purchase scam cases in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous six months. Fraudsters are expected to intensify their efforts leading up to Christmas, making vigilance crucial during this shopping season.

Additionally, Revenue has issued alerts regarding counterfeit goods during the Black Friday sales. If items raise intellectual property concerns, they may be detained for further examination, as counterfeit products can be of inferior quality and unsafe.

As the shopping frenzy unfolds, consumers are urged to remain cautious, validate their purchases, and stay informed to avoid falling victim to scams. Stay safe and shop smart this Black Friday!