{"id":353442,"date":"2025-11-25T03:15:58","date_gmt":"2025-11-25T11:15:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms-articles.softonic.io\/en\/?p=353442"},"modified":"2025-12-12T03:19:46","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T11:19:46","slug":"black-friday-scams-how-avast-scam-guardian-protects-you-from-fake-deals-in-real-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms-articles.softonic.io\/en\/black-friday-scams-how-avast-scam-guardian-protects-you-from-fake-deals-in-real-time\/","title":{"rendered":"Black Friday Scams: How Avast Scam Guardian Protects You from Fake Deals in Real Time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If the dozens of ads and emails flooding your inbox haven\u2019t already made it clear, Black Friday is officially here. It\u2019s the perfect time of year to wrap up your holiday shopping and finally grab the things you\u2019ve had your eye on for months. <\/p>\n\n\n

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But if you\u2019re not careful, it can also turn into a digital minefield. Alongside the real deals, you\u2019ll find ghost stores, sketchy delivery messages for packages you never ordered, and ads that promise high-end phones at prices that seem far too good to be true.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that in mind, it\u2019s natural to hesitate before clicking on an offer. The good news? Technology can give you a hand. The trusted Avast Free Antivirus<\/a><\/strong> now includes Avast Scam Guardian<\/strong>. This new feature helps detect and block fake websites and phishing messages, enabling you to browse and shop with greater confidence during the busiest shopping weeks of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fake Online Stores<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

During Black Friday, fake online stores multiply across social media and ad platforms. These websites often look convincing, using polished photos, logos, and even fabricated customer reviews. But many are built to collect payments for products that never ship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A major warning sign is a steep, unrealistic discount- for example, a branded jacket normally costing $160 offered for $19.99. Other red flags include missing refund policies, limited payment methods, or a lack of business contact details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even the web address can be deceptive. Scammers often mimic real brand URLs by swapping letters or adding small changes, such as \u201camaz0n\u201d instead of \u201camazon.\u201d Taking a moment to double-check the domain can help you spot the difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Delivery Scams and Fake Invoices<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Around Black Friday, inboxes fill up with messages claiming there\u2019s a problem with a delivery. These phishing scams often pretend to be from well-known shipping companies, using urgent wording to make you click links or download attachments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The messages might mention unpaid fees or missing information about a recent order. In reality, those links often lead to fake pages that attempt to steal login or payment details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before responding, verify whether you actually ordered a package. If you\u2019re unsure, visit the courier\u2019s official website by typing its address manually, or check your order history with the retailer. Avoid opening attachments or links from unknown senders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cToo Good to Be True\u201d Deals: Gift Cards, Concert Tickets, and Luxury Items<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Black Friday also brings a wave of \u201cfree gift card\u201d giveaways, \u201cexclusive\u201d concert tickets, or luxury items offered for just a few dollars. These scams exploit excitement and urgency, encouraging users to act before thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Such offers may ask for personal details, payment information \u201cfor verification,\u201d or even ask you to share the link with friends. In most cases, the company behind the offer doesn\u2019t exist. If the promotion lacks clear terms, brand information, or feels rushed, it\u2019s best to skip it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spotting Red Flags<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although every scam appears different, most share a few common telltale traits:<\/p>\n\n\n\n