Louisville, December 2, 2025
As Cyber Monday nears, consumers in Louisville, Kentucky, are warned by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) about a rise in online scams targeting holiday shoppers. With the surge in online shopping, scammers have been setting up fake websites and ads, leading buyers to counterfeit products or financial fraud. The BBB emphasizes the importance of safe shopping habits, such as checking website security and understanding return policies, to ensure a secure shopping experience during the holiday season.
Louisville, Kentucky: BBB Warns of Cyber Monday Scams Amid Shopping Surge
As Cyber Monday approaches, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in Louisville, Kentucky, is alerting consumers to an increase in online scams targeting holiday shoppers. The surge in online shopping during this period has attracted fraudulent activities aimed at exploiting unsuspecting buyers.
Rise in Online Scams
Cyber Monday, a major online shopping event, has seen a significant uptick in fraudulent websites and deceptive sellers. Scammers often create sites that closely mimic reputable retailers, offering enticing deals that lead to counterfeit products or non-delivery of goods. These fraudulent sites may also compromise personal and financial information.
Common Scam Tactics
- Fake Websites and Ads: Scammers replicate popular stores or run “too good to be true” deals. Shoppers are advised to double-check URLs, scrutinize spelling and contact information, and avoid unfamiliar sellers.
- Unsecured Checkout Pages: Always look for “HTTPS” (not just “HTTP”) in a website’s address before entering payment or personal data. If it’s not secure, don’t proceed.
- Questionable Payment Methods: Use a credit card rather than wire transfers or prepaid debit cards. Credit cards offer buyers added protection against fraud.
- Fake “Deals” and Misleading Pricing: Some so-called discounts may be deceptive. BBB recommends using price-tracking tools or comparing against known retailer prices to confirm real savings.
Smart Shopping Habits
The BBB suggests these guidelines to help consumers shop safely this holiday season:
- Shop Only on Secure, Trusted Websites: Ensure the website is reputable and secure before making a purchase.
- Track Shipments Carefully: For high-value items, consider requiring a signature or using secure pick-up lockers to prevent porch theft.
- Understand Return and Exchange Policies: Some Cyber Monday deals may be “final sale” or have strict return windows.
- Beware of Phishing Scams: Unsolicited emails, texts, or calls—especially those offering “deals” or claiming shipping problems—can be attempts to steal data.
If You Suspect a Scam
Keep documentation of all orders and communications, saving confirmation emails or pages, and monitoring billing statements. In case of suspected fraud or non-delivery, consumers should contact their credit card issuer or bank as soon as possible. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Additional Resources
For more information on holiday season topics, visit the BBB’s holiday helper page at bbb.org/holidayhelper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the common scam tactics during Cyber Monday?
Common scam tactics include fake websites and ads, unsecured checkout pages, questionable payment methods, and fake deals with misleading pricing.
How can I protect myself from online scams during Cyber Monday?
To protect yourself, shop only on secure, trusted websites, track shipments carefully, understand return and exchange policies, and be wary of phishing scams.
What should I do if I suspect I’ve been scammed?
If you suspect a scam, keep documentation of all orders and communications, monitor billing statements, and contact your credit card issuer or bank immediately. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Key Features of Cyber Monday Scams
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fake Websites and Ads | Scammers create sites that closely mimic reputable retailers, offering enticing deals that lead to counterfeit products or non-delivery of goods. |
| Unsecured Checkout Pages | Websites lacking “HTTPS” in their address may compromise personal and financial information during transactions. |
| Questionable Payment Methods | Scammers may request payment through wire transfers or prepaid debit cards, which offer less protection against fraud compared to credit cards. |
| Fake “Deals” and Misleading Pricing | Some discounts may be deceptive, with prices inflated before being marked down to appear as significant savings. |
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