FBI Warns of Surge in Fraudulent Shopping Websites

FBI Warns of Surge in Fraudulent Shopping Websites

Fraud Management & Cybercrime , Fraud Risk Management

Victims Drawn to Malicious Sites Advertising Low Prices Prajeet Nair (@prajeetspeaks) • August 4, 2020    

The FBI has issued an alert warning that cybercriminals are creating fraudulent websites that mimic popular e-commerce sites.


See Also: Global E-Commerce in 2020: Redefining the Retail Experience as Shopping Patterns Change


The alert notes that victims are being lured with offers placed on social media platforms and search engines for desirable products, such as face masks, at low prices. These offers then link to the fraudulent websites.


"Victims purchased items from these websites because prices were consistently lower than those offered by other online retail stores, and many of the websites used content copied from legitimate sites and often shared the same contact information," according to Monday's alert.


Those targeted by these scams have reported not receiving purchased items or receiving face masks even if they ordered something else, according to the FBI. When consumers complained, they were offered a partial refund.


Spotting Signs of Fraud


The fraudulent business practices are easy to spot, the FBI says (see: How Fraudsters Search for Victims Online).


The first clue is that the shopping site requires victims pay retailers using an online money transfer service. This should set off alarms, says Paul Bischoff, privacy advocate with the ..

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