Black Friday scams target shoppers with fake websites and texts

WITN reported that Black Friday shoppers in Elizabeth City should be cautious of scams involving fake websites and fraudulent customer service numbers.

Kyle James, a writer for ConsumerAffairs, explained that 'ghost websites' are fake online stores promoted through convincing social media ads, sometimes using celebrities and well-known brands to lure buyers. These sites either take orders without delivering products or steal credit card information.

Another scam involves ads claiming store closings or final sales, which direct shoppers to fraudulent sites designed to collect personal data. Scammers may also buy sponsored Google listings for customer service numbers that appear above official contacts, aiming to obtain credit card details.

James advised shoppers to use official store apps or websites to verify customer service numbers and avoid calling numbers found through ads. He also warned against responding to text messages about delayed deliveries or order issues, as legitimate companies do not request tracking verification via text.

Elizabeth City shoppers are encouraged to search for the word 'scam' alongside company names before clicking on offers and to avoid clicking on links in suspicious texts to protect their personal and financial information.