How to protect yourself from Black Friday scams (and really save money)

A Black Friday It is one of the most important times of the year to make good purchases and get impressive discounts. However, it is important to know that this is also an opportune time for scammers to act. With this in mind, we have created this tutorial with tips and explanations on how to protect yourself against scammers. black friday scams, so you can keep an eye on it and avoid stress. Check it out!

When is Black Friday 2025?

A Black Friday 2025 happens on the day 28 NovemberIt always happens on the last Friday of the month. This date marks the official start of the end-of-year shopping season and usually boosts the entire retail sector, both online and physical, with promotions and high volumes of searches for deals. It is also the period when consumers need to be extra careful to differentiate real discounts from fake promotions and avoid common scams of the season.

However, Brazilian consumers should start preparing well in advance by monitoring the prices of their desired products. Many stores start offering promotions from the end of October, with only some of the best discounts actually being offered on the official date.

Be aware of scams (and how to protect yourself from them)

During periods of big promotions like Black Friday, it is essential to be vigilant to avoid falling for scams when shopping online. Criminals often use deceptive tactics to steal consumers’ personal and financial information. Therefore, it is crucial to remain vigilant and adopt safe practices when browsing and making transactions on the internet.

Stay away from fake or cloned websites

During Black Friday, scammers often create fake or cloned websites that mimic legitimate stores to trick consumers. These sites may look nearly identical to the originals, but minor details such as spelling mistakes in the URL or the absence of “https” in the address may indicate that something is wrong. For example, criminals may create links that resemble those of famous stores, such as “Amazon.com" or "Magazineluiza.com.br“, but with small changes, like a “M” extra at the end of “Amazon” or with an ending other than “. Com.br".

Criminals use these sites to steal personal and financial information by tricking consumers into making purchases or entering personal information. To protect yourself, always double-check the website address for any errors or subtle differences. Instead of clicking on links sent to stores via email or text message, it’s best to visit the store’s website directly.

Another way to check the security of the site is to click on the “website information” in the address bar and look for the icon padlock with the information “the connection is secure“Using reliable search engines to find the store’s official website and checking digital certificates and security seals also helps confirm the site’s legitimacy. See the example below:

Be wary of websites that offer absurdly low prices or very advantageous payment terms. Never enter personal or financial information on websites that you are not sure are safe and legitimate.

Phishing via email or WhatsApp

Phishing generally works by sending emails or messages. WhatsApp that appear to come from trusted sources, such as banks, well-known stores, or even friends. These messages often contain malicious links that direct the user to fraudulent pages asking for sensitive information. To avoid falling for this type of scam, never click on links or download attachments from unknown senders. Always check the sender's address and, if in doubt, contact the company or person who supposedly sent the message directly.

Another important tip is to keep an eye out for spelling or grammar mistakes in messages, as these are often a sign of phishing. Let's look at one below: example of a phishing scam message sent via WhatsApp during the Black Friday:

In addition to checking the CNPJ, check the age of the store. Older stores tend to have a history of reliability that can be verified through customer reviews and records on complaint websites.

Search for the store on Reclame Aqui

Before making an online purchase, it is essential to check the store's reputation. An effective way to do this is through the website. "Reclame Aqui", as consumers share their experiences and reviews. When consulting the "Reclame Aqui", you can identify whether the store has a lot of complaints, what the nature of those complaints are, and how the company resolved them. Stores with a high rate of problem resolution tend to be more trustworthy. This prior research can help you avoid headaches and ensure that you are dealing with a legitimate seller.

If you find many unresolved complaints or recurring problems, consider looking for another seller. If you have already been harmed by them, you can even file your own complaint by clicking the button. COMPLAIN in red.

Check for fake security seals and HTTPS.

Scams involving fake security seals have become common during the Black FridayThis is especially true on websites designed to deceive unsuspecting consumers. Scammers replicate icons such as "Secure Site," "Protected Purchase," or seals from well-known companies, applying copied images without any real validation. Visually, these seals appear legitimate, but they have no connection to security systems or audits.

Another common scam is that of HTTPS This is false, as it exploits the belief that any website with a "padlock" icon is secure. Although... HTTPS While important, it only indicates that there is encryption in the connection between the user and the website—not that the website belongs to a reputable company. Criminals can easily issue basic certificates, causing fraudulent pages to display the padlock in the address bar, deceiving consumers who use this single criterion to measure the trustworthiness of a store.

To identify these scams, it's essential to go beyond the visual aspect. For security seals, click on them to verify if they lead to an official page confirming certification; fake seals usually don't have a link or lead to generic pages. In the case of... HTTPSWhen checking, make sure the address is actually the brand's official domain, without strange variations, random numbers, or spelling errors.

Be suspicious of “unmissable” discounts and offers

in the course of Black FridayIt's common to find discounts and offers that seem too good to be true. Unfortunately, many of these promotions can be scams. Scammers use attractive offers to lure unsuspecting consumers and steal their personal and financial information.

Also, be wary of promotions that require you to take urgent action, such as clicking on a link or quickly providing personal information. These are classic signs of scams, so instead of rushing in, do some thorough research on the offer and the store promoting it.

Be careful with links in WhatsApp and Telegram groups.

Groups of WhatsApp and Telegram are often used to share links to promotions and discounts during the Black Friday. However, it is important to be cautious when clicking on these links, as they can redirect to fake websites or infect your device with malware. Scammers infiltrate these groups to trick members and steal their personal and financial information. Before clicking on any link, make sure the source is trustworthy and that the link leads to a legitimate website.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a friend or an influencer you “think” you trust. Check if the shared link is also from a trustworthy store or if it’s not a Phishing attempt, the name given to fraudulent emails or messages that pretend to be legitimate companies.

Instead, go to the store’s official website by typing the address directly into your browser or using a trusted search engine. This reduces the risk of falling for scams.

Fake marketplaces within social networks

Within networks such as Facebook e InstagramScammers exploit native platform tools to make their fake marketplaces even more convincing. They create business pages that mimic well-known stores, using nearly identical names, professional photos, and even fake contact information.

In some cases, they use the "Store" feature itself. Facebook or catalogs in Instagram to publish products at extremely low prices. Because these platforms allow for the quick creation of profiles, fraudsters can assemble a complete storefront in just a few hours, which facilitates their actions during periods of high demand, such as Black Friday.

Another common strategy is the use of paid advertising to reach a large number of potential buyers. Facebook Ads and Instagram AdsCriminals are able to boost posts with catchy headlines and real product photos, directing users to external links that mimic the websites of major retailers. In turn, payment is usually requested via Pix (Brazil's instant payment system), bank slips, or direct transfers, bypassing methods that protect consumers, such as credit cards.

The scam's dynamics are completed when the user tries to check comments, ratings, or signs of activity. To appear authentic, scammers buy fake followers or create artificial interactions to simulate engagement. Positive comments are left by newly created profiles, without photos or with generic names, while real customer questions are quickly deleted.

Be careful when buying from marketplaces

Marketplaces like Mercado Livre, Amazon e I got sick These are shops within shops. They are great ways to buy cheaper products, but it's important to pay attention to a few points before making a payment. See below:

Check the seller's reputation

Many marketplaces display seller reviews and ratings based on feedback from previous customers. Check if the seller has a high rating and read the reviews to identify potential issues. Negative comments about late delivery, damaged products, or poor customer service can be red flags.

Also, look at how many sales the seller has made and whether they respond promptly to customer inquiries. Sellers with a long sales history and positive reviews are generally more trustworthy.

Require invoice and approval

When purchasing products online, always ask for a receipt. The receipt is an essential document that proves your purchase and guarantees your rights as a consumer. It is essential for situations involving exchanges, returns or activating the product warranty. In addition, the receipt ensures that the seller is in compliance with tax and legal requirements, reducing the risk of purchasing products of dubious origin.

Also ensure that the product has certification, especially in the case of electronics and home appliances. Certified products have undergone safety and quality tests, guaranteeing that they meet regulatory standards. showmetech there is a complete article on the subject that helps you identify a possible irregular cell phone, be sure to check it out.  

Fake profiles and deepfakes with influencers

With the advancement of AI, scammers can now create fake profiles on social media, using photos and videos of influencers to lure consumers into fraudulent offers. Using deepfake techniques, they can make it appear as if the influencers themselves are recommending products or stores.

These profiles share links to fake websites that steal users’ personal and financial information. To avoid falling for this type of scam, verify the authenticity of the profiles by looking for verification badges and checking the history of posts and interactions.

Using AI to create fake reviews and testimonials.

The use of AI to create fake reviews and testimonials has become one of the most widely used techniques by scammers during the [pandemic/modernization]. Black FridayArtificial intelligence tools can produce convincing texts, using natural language and details that make the comments seem real. These reviews are applied to both fake websites and profiles within social networks, reinforcing the false reputation of the store.

In addition to text, AI is also used to generate photos of seemingly real people, creating fake profiles that comment, like, and interact as if they were real consumers. These "faces" are produced by algorithms capable of creating unique images that are impossible to trace. On platforms such as Instagram, Facebook e até marketplaces On the other hand, these official profiles leave complimentary comments, answer questions, and simulate positive experiences with products or deliveries that never actually happened.

To identify this type of fraud, it's important to analyze patterns. Reviews written by AI often repeat structures, exaggerate qualities, or seem too generic, lacking real details about the product. Profiles used in these scams typically have few photos, nonexistent followers, generic names, or very recent creation dates. On their own websites, be wary of testimonials without identification, overly perfect photos, or texts that seem standardized.

Fake bill

A common scam during Black Friday is the sending of fake bank slips. Criminals send fraudulent slips via email or text messages, which, when paid, transfer the money to third-party accounts instead of paying for the purchase. To avoid this type of fraud, it is essential to carefully check the details on the slip before making the payment. Therefore, always confirm that the name and CNPJ of the beneficiary correspond to the store where you made the purchase.

Registration or data required to unlock discount

Na Black Friday, many scams involve requiring registration or providing personal data to unlock discounts or access exclusive offers. Scammers use this data to commit fraud or sell the information to third parties.

To avoid falling for this type of scam, never provide personal or financial information on suspicious websites or links. Instead, register directly on the stores' official websites and be wary of any requests that seem excessive or unusual.

Precautions when paying with Pix

Pix has become a fast and convenient payment method, but it can also be the target of scams. During the Black Friday, it is essential to be careful when using the Pix to prevent transfers to fraudulent accounts. Make sure the key Pix provided corresponds to the legitimate store or seller. Avoid making payments for keys Pix from unknown individuals or without prior verification.

Also, confirm all data before completing the transaction and be suspicious of urgent or unusual payment requests. Use the Pix with caution can ensure a safe shopping experience.

How to find real discounts

By now, you probably know that it can be difficult to distinguish between genuine discounts and deceptive offers. To find real discounts, it’s essential to adopt strategies that can help you make the most of your shopping. Black Friday. To do this, follow the tips below:

Check out the Showmetech buying guides

The team at showmetech is dedicated to helping consumers make informed and intelligent decisions when shopping. That's why we've put together a series of buying guidess, meticulously prepared to list relevant products in each price range, highlighting the best deals available.

In addition to offering a carefully selected selection of products, our guides teach consumers what they need to know about each type of product, such as technical specifications, essential features and usage tips. This ensures that you not only get a good price, but also make a choice that suits your needs.

Participate in discount channels

An excellent opportunity that our team offers is to recommend offers within the Community. showmetech No. WhatsApp and Telegram. There, you can participate in several groups separated by themes and, most importantly, enter the channel Discounts and Offers.

Our team is already recommending several products there, ensuring that you find the best deals, even after the end of the Black Friday. Take this opportunity to ask the community directly for tips and recommendations and benefit from all the knowledge they share. This exchange of information can be extremely valuable for getting the best deals and making smart purchases.

Use price trackers

Price Trackers are essential tools for any consumer who wants to guarantee the best deal in Black Friday. These services monitor product price changes over time and alert users when prices drop or reach a desired value.

When using price tracking or comparison sites, such as Zoom and Buscapé, you can avoid falling for misleading offers that appear to be discounts but are actually just temporary reductions on inflated prices. For example, by going to the Zoom website and searching for Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, you can find the price of it in the six cheapest stores. Also, by clicking on the “See History“, you can see that the price has been falling in recent months, even before the Black Friday.

In addition to price drop alerts, many trackers offer additional features such as store comparisons, detailed price history, and market trend analysis. By integrating these tools into your shopping strategy, you’ll be well-informed and prepared to make smarter, more cost-effective choices. So even during the rush of everyday life, Black Friday, you can guarantee the best products at the best prices.

Prefer to buy from well-known websites

It’s tempting to try new websites that promise amazing deals, but safety should always come first. Instead, buy from well-known, trusted websites that already have a solid reputation in the market. These sites usually have robust security measures in place, such as certification. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), which protects your personal and financial information during transactions. Additionally, large retailers often offer efficient customer support and fair return policies, providing consumers with greater peace of mind.

Pay attention to the shipping cost

Shipping costs can often significantly increase the total purchase price, offsetting any discounts you may have received. Check to see if the store offers free shipping or reduced shipping options and compare these prices with other stores. In some cases, it may be worth choosing a store that offers a smaller discount on the product but has free or cheaper shipping, resulting in a lower total cost.

Also, keep an eye on delivery times. During big sales events like Black Friday, delivery time may be extended due to high order volume. Please read the shipping time information carefully to ensure you receive your product within the desired time.

Check the exchange and return policy.

Before making an online purchase, it’s essential to check the store’s return and exchange policy. Policies can vary significantly between retailers and may affect your ability to resolve issues after your purchase.

Make sure the store has a clear and fair return and exchange policy, including details about the timeframes, costs, and procedures required. This is especially important for products that may not meet your expectations or arrive damaged.

According to Article 49 of the Consumer Protection Code, all people have the Right to Return, which allows the return of a purchase made online or by telephone, for any reason, within seven calendar days of receiving the product or service. 

The full amount must be refunded, adjusted for inflation, and include all fees paid, such as shipping. The consumer is responsible for the return shipping costs, but some companies like Mercado Livre and Shopee may offer a reverse logistics service, which is free of charge.

Save documents and printouts of the purchase

Save order confirmation emails, receipts, and any other communication with the store. Also, take screenshots of purchase confirmation screens, order details, and promotion terms. These records will be valuable in case of disputes, delivery issues, or the need for exchanges or returns. Having all the detailed information about your purchase makes it easier to resolve any issues that may arise after the purchase. Black Friday.

Keeping an organized file with all the documents related to your purchases can help protect your rights as a consumer. In the event of disagreements or complaints, you will have concrete proof of what was agreed upon at the time of purchase.

Did you like the tips for paying the lowest price for what you want without running the risk of scams? Tell us about it Comment!

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Sources: Barclays, PC Mag e NordVPN.

reviewed by Daniel Coutinho in 15 / 11 / 2025