Online shoppers are being urged to be extra vigilant of cyber criminals ramping up fake text messages to scam unwitting Australian victims ahead of one of the biggest global retail sales events of the year.
The AFP is warning potential victims over the increased likelihood of cyber criminals aiming to exploit Black Friday and Cyber Monday shoppers by impersonating legitimate retailers along with postal and delivery services via phishing text message scams, likely generated using artificial intelligence (AI).
To highlight how difficult it can be to detect fake text messages, the AFP is sharing legitimate and AI-generated text messages to help people identify the scams and encourage online shoppers to "think before they click".
Cyber criminals use phishing scams as a method to deceive victims into providing personal information through fraudulent emails or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate retailer, organisation, or person.
The emails contain malicious links which enable the scammers to gain access to a victim's computer.
If a person clicks on the link, criminals attempt to steal online banking passwords, and credit card details which may result in the loss of money and identity theft.
Scamwatch data shows more than 114,000 phishing reports were made in Australia in the 2023-24 financial year, which resulted in more than $18 million of recorded thefts.
AFP Cyber Operations Acting Commander, Dean Chidgey said the AFP encouraged online shoppers to shop smart not only during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales but throughout the year by being vigilant to the signs of phishing scams.
"With the rising cost of living and Christmas fast approaching, many Australians are looking to pick up a bargain this Black Friday or Cyber Monday and unfortunately cybercriminals will be looking to target unsuspecting customers shopping online," a/Commander Chidgey said.
"We're calling on Australians to 'think before they click' this shopping season. We know that online shoppers will be bombarded with promotional text messages and emails designed to create a sense of urgency - this is why it's important to tread with caution. You may think you are clicking on a good deal, but it may actually be a phishing scam instead.
"Take your time when reading text messages and emails, look out for strange letters or symbols in hyperlinks, avoid any deal that seems too good to be true, and if you are still unsure you can verify the information by googling the official website or retailer instead."
The AFP launched a global taskforce called Operation Firestorm this year, collaborating with international law enforcement partners to disrupt organised criminal networks offshore scamming Australians through romance, investment or cryptocurrency scams.
If you believe you are a victim of a phishing scam, or see any discrepancies in your bank account, please contact your bank immediately, and report the matter to police and Report Cyber.
If there is an immediate threat to life or risk of harm, call 000.
If you, or someone you know needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, who provide 24/7 support services.
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