Fake goods and purchase con

A purchase scam is where you make a payment for goods or services that are fake or never turn up. 

Shoppers are particularly at risk of falling victim to purchase scams during Black Friday as they are in the mindset of hunting down bargains and getting good deals on Christmas presents for loved ones.

More than one in four parents have been tricked by purchase scams in the past according to trade body UK Finance. 

They are particularly likely to be susceptible, as fraudsters often take advantage of the fact that lots of parents will be trying to track down a popular present for their children.

Fake goods are most commonly advertised on Instagram or Facebook Marketplace.

Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.

Check customer reviews of the seller to make sure they have a good track record.

 Tracking number trick

In this type of scam, a fraudster will send fake text messages or emails containing links, pretending to be from a retailer or courier with fake parcel tracking information.

Scammers take advantage of the fact that shoppers are likely to have lots of parcels arriving at this time of year.

If you click the link or open the attachment, crooks can then infect your device with malware or direct you to fake websites where they will trick you into handing over your personal details.

Stop and think before you click on any links contained in an email.