Authored by: Brooke Shafer

Published: December 1, 2025 / 09:01 AM EST

Updated: December 1, 2025 / 09:02 AM EST

(NewsNation) — As one of the most anticipated shopping days of the year, Cyber Monday isn’t just a haven for bargain hunters; it also serves as a prime opportunity for scammers eager to exploit the shopping frenzy. With millions logging online, the day becomes a playground for deceitful schemes.

This year, an estimated 74 million consumers are expected to dive into Cyber Monday deals, capitalizing on the endless array of discounts. To put the scale of this online shopping extravaganza into perspective, consider that in 2024, shoppers collectively spent a staggering $16 million per minute during the peak hours between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. This highlights the immense financial activity and, consequently, the potential risk involved.

Adobe Analytics estimates that shoppers will spend $14.2 billion online Monday, a robust round of shopping after a Black Friday that exceeded expectations.

Here are some red flags to watch for, according to the Better Business Bureau:

• An insecure address — look for “https,” not just “http.”
• A misspelled URL.
• Only accepting gift cards or money transfers like Zelle or Venmo.
• Copious pop-up ads.
• Being redirected to another site.

The BBB also warned shoppers to be wary of links on social media. Instead of clicking a link to an item and buying directly, go to your browser and search for the item there.

When you check out, paying by credit card rather than debit card provides consumers with more protection against unauthorized purchases.

If you do fall victim to a scam, first reach out to your bank and report the issue. Then file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Victims who file an ICCC report in the first 72 hours have a better chance of tracking and recovering their money, the FBI said.

The nonprofit Identity Theft Resource Center can also help if you believe your identity has been compromised.