As Black Friday and Cyber Monday draw near, security experts caution shoppers to be vigilant when making online purchases. David Shipley, CEO of Beauceron Security Inc. in New Brunswick, highlights the increasing prevalence of fraudulent ads on platforms like Facebook and search engines. Shipley emphasizes the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by cybercriminals to create sophisticated scams.
Both Black Friday and Cyber Monday are marketing events aimed at driving consumer spending, occurring on November 28 and December 1 respectively. Shipley warns that even amateur criminals can now craft convincing fraud with AI tools. To stay safe while shopping online, Shipley advises consumers to visit trusted websites directly and monitor credit card transactions for any suspicious activities.
Moreover, Shipley suggests supporting local businesses to bolster the community and economy while potentially purchasing Canadian products. He notes that online scams are not limited to seniors, with younger generations also falling prey due to unwarranted trust in technology. Larry Zelvin, head of financial crimes at the Bank of Montreal, indicates a surge in online fraud during the holiday season.
Zelvin cautions against falling for urgent sales pitches and offers that seem too good to be true from unfamiliar vendors. Parents are urged to supervise children using credit cards, especially on platforms like TikTok. Reporting any suspected fraud is crucial, with Zelvin encouraging victims to seek support without shame. Using credit cards over debit or gift cards is recommended for added protection, as credit transactions can be halted more effectively in case of fraud.
While Zelvin acknowledges the importance of enjoying the holiday season, he stresses the need for vigilance to prevent falling victim to online scams. Be cautious, stay informed, and remain alert to safeguard your online shopping experience.