If you’re an American over 30, you probably remember the long lines and occasional stampedes that marked Black Fridays of the past. Back then, the deals were worth waiting for. These days, however, the bargains just don’t hold the same appeal.
To make matters worse, some retailers are now actively scamming customers with misleading Black Friday and Cyber Monday “deals.”
Black Friday Scams
So, how can you avoid falling victim to these traps?
Here are a few ways to avoid getting scammed:
- Shop local.
- Use price-tracking apps like Honey.
- Buy your gifts used.
- Patronize bin stores.
- Barter or trade for gifts.
- Purchase gifts through Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. *Be cautious when using these sites.
- Consider thrifting your items at local thrift shops.
- Avoid corporate thrift shops like GCF.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren’t what they used to be, and the risks of getting scammed are higher than ever. But by being cautious while shopping—whether that means shopping locally, using price-tracking apps, buying secondhand, or checking out places like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace—you can still score great deals without getting taken for a ride. Just stay alert, do a little homework, and remember: the best deals aren’t always the flashiest. Happy hunting!