FBI Warns Denver Shoppers: Beware Cyber Monday Scams

As Denver locals prepare to snag the best deals this Cyber Monday, the FBI is issuing a critical warning. Last year alone, non-payment and non-delivery scams cost consumers a staggering $785 million, a figure that highlights the severe risk faced by online shoppers.

The FBI’s Warning for Denver Shoppers

The allure of deep discounts can often overshadow caution, making holiday shoppers particularly vulnerable. The FBI’s recent alert emphasizes the pervasive threat of online fraud, specifically targeting what they term “non-payment” and “non-delivery” scams. These prevalent schemes capitalize on the high volume of transactions during peak shopping events like Cyber Monday, impacting consumers right here in Colorado.

For Denverites, understanding these threats is crucial. While the convenience of online shopping is undeniable, the potential for financial loss due to sophisticated scams is ever-present. This year, experts urge a heightened sense of awareness to protect your hard-earned money and personal information.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Scammers employ various tactics, but two types stand out in the FBI’s warning due to their significant financial impact.

Non-Payment Scams

These occur when you, as the seller, send a product or provide a service, but the buyer never actually pays you. This can manifest through fake payment confirmations, bounced checks, or chargeback fraud after you’ve already shipped the item. For local Denver sellers on marketplaces, this means verifying all payment methods before releasing goods.

Non-Delivery Scams

Conversely, non-delivery scams are what most consumers fear: you pay for an item online, but it never arrives. This often involves fake e-commerce websites, fraudulent social media ads, or sellers who simply disappear after receiving payment. Shoppers might receive tracking numbers that don’t work, empty boxes, or nothing at all.

Other Deceptive Tactics

Beyond these primary categories, be wary of phishing emails designed to steal your credentials, pop-up ads leading to malicious sites, and “too good to be true” deals that pressure you into quick purchases without proper research. Gift card scams, where fraudsters demand payment in gift cards, are also a persistent threat, especially during the holidays.

Protecting Yourself Online This Holiday Season

Staying vigilant is your best defense against cybercrime. Here are actionable steps Denver shoppers can take to ensure a safer Cyber Monday experience:

• Verify the Seller: Always check reviews and ratings, especially for unfamiliar online stores. If a deal is significantly better than competitors, it’s a major red flag.
• Secure Websites: Look for “https://” in the website address and a padlock icon in the browser bar. This indicates a secure connection.
• Strong Passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for all your online shopping accounts and consider using a password manager. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Beware of Phishing: Do not click on suspicious links in emails or texts, even if they appear to be from legitimate retailers. Always go directly to the retailer’s official website.
• Payment Methods: Use credit cards for online purchases as they offer stronger fraud protection than debit cards, wire transfers, or gift cards. Avoid paying with methods that offer no recourse.
• Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report discrepancies immediately.
• Shipping Confirmation: Ensure you receive legitimate tracking information. If an item doesn’t arrive as expected, follow up promptly with the seller through official channels.
• Public Wi-Fi: Avoid making purchases or entering sensitive information when connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.

What to Do If You’re Scammed

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of an online scam, immediate action is crucial:

1. Contact your bank or credit card company to report the fraudulent charge and inquire about dispute resolution.
2. Gather all relevant information: transaction details, website URLs, communication with the seller, and any tracking numbers.
3. Report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at IC3.gov. This helps law enforcement track and prosecute cybercriminals.
4. Consider filing a report with the local Denver Police Department if there’s a significant financial loss or identity theft involved.

Secure vs. Risky Payment Methods

Choosing the right payment method can significantly impact your ability to recover funds in case of fraud.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What exactly are non-payment and non-delivery scams?
  Non-payment scams occur when a seller ships goods but doesn’t receive legitimate payment. Non-delivery scams happen when a buyer pays for an item but never receives it, often due to fraudulent sellers or fake websites.
• How much money was lost to these scams last year?
  According to the FBI, non-payment and non-delivery scams collectively cost consumers an alarming $785 million nationwide last year.
• What should I do if a Cyber Monday deal seems too good to be true?
  If a deal seems unusually low compared to other retailers, it’s a major red flag. Always verify the seller’s legitimacy, check reviews, and compare prices from trusted sources before making a purchase.
• Who should I report an online scam to if I live in Denver?
  You should immediately contact your bank or credit card company. Additionally, file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov) and consider reporting it to the Denver Police Department for local action.

This Cyber Monday, let vigilance be your best shopping tool. By taking proactive steps, Denver residents can enjoy the holiday deals safely and avoid becoming another statistic in the fight against online fraud.

FBI warns Denver shoppers of Cyber Monday scams