Minnesotans are Being Scammed Online at Alarming Rate

A new study finds that Minnesota gift-givers are being inundated with online scams and lost a record $193 million last year.

Click here. Nope, don't click there. Should I open this? Definitely, do not open that. There's a lot coming at us these days, and there's a lot at stake.

Scammers are especially licking their chops this time of year, as American prepare to spend a whopping $240 billion online shopping for the holidays.

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The team at Social Catfish just completed a study using the latest FBI and FTC data to see what's behind this disastrous trend.

The study found that Minnesota ranks 18th on the nation when it comes to being scammed, and that's not good. Californians, Texans, and Floridians were the most scammed -- along with those in New York and New Jersey.

4 Online Holiday Shopping Scams and How to Avoid Them

Look-a-Like Stores with AI Chatbots: Fake e-commerce websites that mimic trusted brands use AI customer service reps to answer questions in real time creating a sense of legitimacy. How to Avoid: Carefully check the retailer’s URL (e.g., “Macys.com” vs. “Maceys.com”).

Deepfake Videos of Public Figures: Deepfake videos make it look like trusted public figures are promoting Black Friday deals in ads or social media. How to Avoid: Audio not matching, one facial expression, one tone of voice, extra body parts.

Discounted Gift Cards: Phony marketplaces are selling “discounted” gift cards that have a zero balance. How to Avoid Them: Perform a reverse search to verify the seller’s identity.

4) Suspicious Activity Alert: Consumers receive an alert of suspicious activity and must call to verify their account where an AI customer service rep steals their information. How to Avoid: Contact the company only by using the main number on their website.

Have fun. Shop 'til you drop. And be careful and safe.