Sydney, 24 November 2025 – With Black Friday and Cyber Monday fast approaching, millions of Australians are preparing to take advantage of some of the year’s biggest online sales. As the rising cost of living sends more people in search of bargains, the risk of falling victim to scams is also on the rise. Just last month, the Microsoft Digital Defense Report listed Australia as one of the top ten countries in which organisations face cyber threats.
“Threat actors see technologies, like AI, as tools to turbocharge their efforts and break through vulnerabilities. With AI now helping scammers build fake shopping sites in minutes, complete with realistic product descriptions and reviews, it’s getting harder to tell what’s real and what’s not. They can be very sophisticated,” said Mark Anderson, National Security Officer, Microsoft ANZ.
“As Australians gear up for Black Friday, it’s essential that shoppers stay alert to the risks. Scammers are counting on people to let their guard down in the rush for a bargain. But with a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risks,” Anderson said.
Mark Anderson shares his top tips and things to look out for:
1. Be sceptical of deals that seem too good to be true
A good indicator of a scam can be if the offer or opportunity sounds too good to be true, or if they are creating artificial time constraints and urgency. When we are under pressure or concerned, we tend to make mistakes. This is the time to slow down and truly consider what is being offered or asked. Anything you’re unwary of, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to verify it with a trusted source.
2. Always verify website authenticity before entering payment details
Cybercriminals can create fake websites that look almost identical to legitimate ones, making it easy to fall into their trap. Before entering any payment details, double-check the URL for spelling errors or unusual domain names. If you’re unsure, search for the official site through a trusted search engine rather than clicking on links in emails or messages.
3. Use unique passphrases and multi-factor authentication on all accounts
Hollywood has us believe that hackers can get into anything, when the reality is that most cybercriminals are foiled by taking some basic steps on your devices and accounts. We recommend ensuring your devices are secure by using strong passphrases and enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of protection. For more information, we recommend visiting the Australian Government’s official site at actnowstaysecure.gov.au.
4. Keep your devices and apps regularly updated
Updates aren’t just about new features; they often include critical security patches that can protect you against cybercriminals. Turning on automatic updates ensures you’re always protected without even having to think about it. Outdated software can leave doors open for attackers, so regularly updating your device is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce risk.
5. Monitor your bank accounts for suspicious activity
You never know when cyber criminals are going to strike. Keeping tabs on your bank accounts can help reduce the amount of harm they can inflict and detect any unusual activity early on.
6. Don’t share personal information with unverified contacts
Always confirm who you’re speaking with before sharing sensitive details. Even establishing a ‘safe word’ with your family members and friends, which only they know, can help ensure you’re not being tricked. Avoid clicking on unexpected links, even if they look legitimate or include your details as scammers often use stolen data to appear legitimate. Keep in mind that personal information is often easily accessible on social media platforms, making it easier for attackers to impersonate someone you know.
7. Report suspicious offers and scams immediately
Security is a team sport. Check in with your loved ones, family, and friends who might be unsure or at risk and help them spot scams before they double-click. If you think you’ve been scammed, act quickly. Go to scamwatch.gov.au or contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160. Even if things feel a little bit suspicious, don’t be afraid to reach out.
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