How are AI Deepfakes and Scams Impacting Black Friday Deals?

Excited for the Black Friday shopping and saving, right? You’re scrolling through your favorite online shop, heart pounding with pleasure, prepared to bag the fine offers. But amidst the chaos of offers, a new threat lurks in the shadows: AI deepfakes and scams.

Imagine this: You’re buying a product because your favorite celebrity or a popular one endorsed the product in a video. 

But what if that video is not actual? 

What if it’s a deepfake, a hyper-realistic video created using artificial intelligence to deceive you?

These deepfakes may be used to promote fake products, spread misinformation, or maybe steal your private data. As we navigate the virtual panorama, we must be aware of these rising threats and take steps to defend ourselves.

In this blog, we will delve into AI deepfakes and scams, exploring how they work, the dangers they pose, and the precautions you may take to stay safe during this Black Friday shopping season.

Mind-Blowing Holiday Shopping Stats

Online buying in the holiday season is always more enormous than ever. 

Here’s what the numbers say:

• 57% of holiday shoppers wait to shop online in 2024, with over 35% waiting to discover deals through social media ads 
• 48% of clients admitted to falling for fake online offers at least once, specifically throughout Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
• Cybercriminals are exploiting this trend, with an estimated 80% surge in AI-powered scams, including deepfakes, since 2022.
• 69% of Boomers and Gen X are planning to purchase gift cards. 

Considering those stats, it’s clear that AI deepfakes and scams are reshaping how we shop online.

The Cost of Falling for a Scam

Getting duped isn’t pretty much dropping money; it’s approximately compromising your private information. 

Cybercriminals can:

• Steal your payment details.
• Use your identification for later or future scams.
• Access vital accounts like emails or social media.

In 2023 alone, holiday buying scams led to a predicted $13 billion in losses globally.

Related Read: Top 11 Cybersecurity Tips for a Secure Black Friday & Cyber Monday Shopping

Top Holiday Shopping Trends Spotted This Year

Let’s see the most happening holiday shopping scam trends recognized in 2024: 

1. AI-Generated Celebrity Endorsements

Fraudsters are developing real videos using AI deepfakes, in which celebrities seem to promote fake products or websites. These ads regularly appear on social media and trap unsuspecting shoppers.

2. Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals

From Black Friday offers to Cyber Monday offers, scammers capitalize on the holiday rush by advertising huge discounts on fake e-commerce sites. Nearly 43% of consumers are drawn in by unrealistically low prices.

3. Phishing Emails and Fake Websites

Emails claiming “limited-time offers” redirect customers to fake websites that mimic real brands. Once you input your info, you’re caught in a shopping scam trap.

4. Fake Reviews and Ratings

33% of holiday season shoppers consider reviews while deciding where to save. Scammers flood fake websites with sparkling critiques to construct credibility, tricking even the savviest consumers.

Read More: How to Identify Deepfakes on Social Media: A Complete Guide

How AI Deepfakes Are Transforming Online Scams

AI deepfakes are no longer simply a laughter social media trend; they’re equipment for deception. 

Here’s how they work:

• Video Manipulation: Scammers use AI to make videos of public figures or your or even promote fake products.
• Voice Mimicry: AI can mimic voices, making scam calls sound shockingly real.
• Phishing Campaigns: Deepfake technology increases the believability of emails and advertisements, making scams tougher to identify.

How to Spot and Stay Protected from Scams While Shopping

With scams evolving, how do you live a step in advance? Come, let’s see that: 

1. Spot the Signs of a Scam

• Check the URL: Fake websites often have slight misspellings or extra characters.
• Analyze the Ad: Examine the ad properly. If a movie star’s endorsement feels off, it probably is. Look for a reputable brand web page.
• Read Reviews Carefully: Be cautious of overly amazing opinions with repetitive language.

2. Use Secure Payment Methods

• Avoid direct bank transfers and use credit cards or safe payment platforms such as PayPal.

3. Verify the Source

• Never click on random links. Instead, go to the brand’s official website to explore deals.
• You can use tools to validate email authenticity.

Also Read: Top 5 Antivirus Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals in 2024: Save Big With Best Deals

How AVP Suite Antivirus Software Can Help

When purchasing online, don’t just depend on your instincts. Equip yourself with great tools, like AVP Suite antivirus software, to guard against scams. 

Here’s how it works:

• Advanced AI Detection: Identifies and blocks phishing emails and deepfake scams before they can even reach you.
• Web Shield: Alerts you about fake or malicious websites, ensuring your buying experience is safer and protected.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Identifies suspicious activities on your device, like unauthorized access to your vital data.
• User-Friendly Interface: It’s extremely convenient and more straightforward to install and set up, so even non-techies can secure their devices.

Say goodbye to holiday scam stress! Download AVP Suite today and enjoy worry-free shopping.

Read More: 9 Unmissable Reasons to Invest in Antivirus Protection

Embrace AI deepfakes and Scams-free Security with AVP Suite!

The convenience of online shopping always comes with threats, particularly during the holiday shopping season. AI deepfakes and scams are becoming more robust, but with the proper precautions and vigilance, you can stay smart and live safely.

Don’t let cybercriminals ruin your Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals! Trust AVP Suite antivirus software to protect your digital existence and make your online purchasing experience hassle-free.

Ready to shield your online shopping? Download AVP Suite now and shop with confidence!

Claim Your Free Trial!