"There are many fake sites operating and willing to take advantage of people."
Leicestershire Police has issued a warning for people hoping to get a good deal on Black Friday.
Nearly £800,000 was lost to criminals nationally during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale events last year.
Fake websites are often created to look identical to the real website and will advertise items at a much cheaper price than the normal retail price to entice victims.
Nicole McIntyre from the force’s Economic Crime Unit (ECU) said: “Black Friday this year falls on November 25. We’ve already seen a number of tempting deals popping up, but I warn people to beware – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
“Before making a purchase, always stop and think – is it from an official retailer and is it clear how you get a refund and return the item should it not be what you were looking for. There are many fake sites operating and willing to take advantage of people and their hard-earned cash at this time of year. Please take a moment before you buy to follow this advice.”
One victim, 66, from North Leicestershire paid out £500 for a Reebok Jet 200 Treadmill from a site offering a large discount.
However, once the money had left her account, she found the website was no longer available and she never received the item.
They have released this advice:
Is the offer too good to be true?
Have you been asked to pay by bank transfer instead of using the online platform’s secure payment option?
Has the website only just launched – days or weeks ago?
Has a sense of urgency been placed on ordering the product so that you don’t miss the price deal?
The headlines in Hinckley and Nuneaton
Dobbies garden centre in Stapleton will change to new operator
Small business owners in Leicestershire urged to remain vigilant following reports of scam
County Council say they have 'firm grip on finances'
ATM at Hinckley Morrisons attacked
