Black Friday scams in Czechia: How to spot fake discounts and shop safely

Black Friday is known for steep discounts, but it’s also a prime time for scams. Nearly half (43 percent) of shoppers in Czechia report being targeted during this shopping season. To help protect yourself, e-commerce and insurance experts share tips on recognizing and avoiding scams just in time for the holiday shopping rush.

Scammers exploit urgency and distraction with fake ads, phishing emails, and fraudulent SMS messages, offering unrealistically low prices or limited-time deals, warns Ondřej Kapr, from the Police Presidium of the Czech Republic’s economic crime department. Some scammers use artificial intelligence to create convincing fake websites or phishing attempts.

Common scams include fake listings on online marketplaces, where fraudsters trick buyers into making payments via fraudulent links. Sellers are also targeted, often by scammers posing as buyers who demand deposits or card details.

Black Friday discounts in Czechia improved with a 2023 consumer protection law requiring sellers to display the lowest price from the past 30 days. While deceptive discounts have declined, impulsive buying remains an issue, with shoppers often purchasing unnecessary items.

Fake e-shops are another growing threat. These sites offer massive discounts but fail to deliver goods. Shoppers are especially vulnerable during the busy holiday season when they are rushed and less cautious.

Even reputable stores use tactics like dynamic pricing and countdown timers, such as “Deal ends at midnight,” to create urgency. They may also inflate prices before Black Friday to make discounts seem more significant than they are, experts note. These practices are not illegal but can mislead shoppers.

Use price-comparison tools like Hlídač shopů to avoid fake discounts and track genuine prices. Check seller reviews on trusted platforms like Zboží.cz or Heureka.cz. Always verify e-shops by reviewing terms, conditions, and security features like 3D secure. Avoid saving card details online or sharing sensitive information such as SMS codes. If unsure, opt for cash-on-delivery or shop with well-known retailers.

Authorities, including Czech police and consumer protection groups, urge caution during this high-risk time. Fraudulent websites often mimic real ones, making small changes to domain names or using low-quality designs to deceive shoppers.

If you fall victim to fraud, there are ways to recover your money. Contact your bank with evidence of the fraudulent transaction and any communication with the seller to request a chargeback. Cyber insurance can also cover losses like undelivered goods or identity theft and may include legal assistance. By staying alert, skeptical, and informed, you can enjoy the benefits of Black Friday without falling for scams.