Money Smarts Blog

Black Friday is almost here! The deals are dropping, shopping carts are filling up and somewhere out there, a scammer is gearing up for their favorite shopping holiday.

As IHMVCU's Financial Crimes Officer, I can tell you scammers love a good sale almost as much as shoppers do. Except they're not looking for a new TV or half-price air fryer. They're shopping for your money and personal information. Rude, right?

Before you click add to cart, let's talk about a few scams that deserve a big, fat RETURN TO SENDER.

Too Good to Be True? Probably.

A $500 TV for $49? Designer handbags for 90% off? We love a bargain, but let's not lose our minds over a discount.

Scammers create fake websites and social media ads that look like legitimate retailers. You hand over your payment information, and that amazing deal? It never shows up.

My advice: Stick to trusted retailers, double-check website addresses and remember that a deal that's too good to be true probably is.

You've Got Mail. And Maybe a Scam.

Your inbox is about to become a Black Friday battleground. And unfortunately, not every email or text offering an amazing deal is from your favorite store.

Scammers send fake sale announcements, order confirmations and shipping updates hoping you'll click before you think.

My advice: Don't let a flashy subject line do the thinking for you. Visit the retailer's official website or app instead of clicking unexpected links.

Your Package Is... Where?

Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday and holiday shopping, keeping track of deliveries practically requires a spreadsheet.

Scammers are counting on that confusion. They'll send texts claiming your package is delayed, your address is wrong or you owe a small delivery fee.

My advice: Don't pay a mystery fee to rescue a mystery package. Check tracking information directly with the retailer or shipping company.

AI Is Making Scams Look Scarily Real.

Here's a new twist on an old trick: scammers are using artificial intelligence to create convincing fake shopping websites, product photos, reviews and social media ads.

That gorgeous designer bag? The five-star reviews? The website that looks like your favorite retailer? All potentially fake.

And thanks to AI, spotting these scams isn't always as easy as finding a typo or a blurry logo.

My advice: Don't trust a website just because it looks professional. Research unfamiliar retailers, check the web address and be suspicious of unbelievable discounts. Even five-star reviews deserve a little side-eye.

Don't Let Checkout Be a Checkout Disaster.

Found the perfect gift? Great! Now let's make sure you're not gifting your money to a scammer.

If a seller insists you pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency or a payment app, consider that your cue to exit the checkout.

My advice: Use a credit card when shopping online when possible. And remember, legitimate retailers won't require you to pay for purchases using gift card numbers.

Shop Smart. Stay Merry.

Black Friday should be about scoring great deals, not giving scammers an early Christmas present.

Slow down, double-check before you click and trust your gut. A little caution can save you a whole lot of holiday headaches.

And if something seems suspicious or you think you've fallen for a scam, contact IHMVCU right away. Our team is here to help you protect your money.

May your carts be full, your deals be real and your money stay right where it belongs.

Happy shopping!