Black Friday deals or traps? How to spot and avoid scams this shopping season

Black Friday is on and shoppers in Nigeria are taking advantage of what has become the year’s biggest sales frenzy.

From smartphones to fashion items, the promise of jaw-dropping discounts can send anyone rushing to fill their cart. However, don’t fall victim to the dreaded “what I ordered vs. what I got” experience or, worse still, lose your money to scams.‎ Here’s how you can avoid getting scammed this season:

1. Shop from Trusted Stores

Stick to well-known and reputable retailers, whether online or in-person. Popular e-commerce platforms like Jumia, Konga, or physical stores you’ve visited before are safer bets. If you’re tempted by an unfamiliar store, do a quick check for online reviews or ask for recommendations from friends.

2. Question “Unbelievable” Discounts 

A flat-screen TV for half the price or designer shoes at 80% off might seem tempting, but such deals are often red flags. Scammers know how to bait people with unrealistic prices. Compare prices across platforms to ensure the discount isn’t fake.

3. Check for Website Security 

When shopping online, only enter your card details on secure websites. Look out for “https://” at the start of the web address and a padlock icon near it. If these are missing, it’s best to avoid the site.

4. Pay Smartly

Use secure payment methods like debit or credit cards, which allow you to track your payments. Avoid bank transfers or payments via gift cards, as they are almost impossible to recover if you’re scammed.

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5. Beware of Fake Emails and Ads

Fraudsters often send fake emails posing as big brands or advertise deals on social media that link to bogus websites. Always go directly to the retailer’s official website instead of clicking on links.

6. Research and Read Reviews

Before purchasing, take time to read reviews on the product and the seller. Watch out for vague or overly positive reviews, as scammers often create fake ones.

7. Confirm Return Policies

Legitimate stores have clear return or refund policies. If a site has no policy or makes it unusually difficult to return items, think twice before buying.

8. Monitor Your Bank Account

After shopping, keep an eye on your bank transactions to spot any unauthorised charges. It’s also helpful to enable transaction alerts for real-time updates.

9. Don’t Shop in a Hurry

Scammers love creating urgency via timers, “limited stock” notices, or pop-ups claiming thousands of people are viewing the same item. Take a moment to pause and verify the deal before rushing to checkout.