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2 December 2020, Sydney, Australia – Fraudsters are targeting Christmas bargain hunters who have switched to online shopping amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to Finder.
Online shopping fraud has more than doubled in the past 12 months, putting well-meaning Christmas shoppers at risk.
Figures from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission show online shopping fraud is up 111% in October 2020, compared to October 2019.
More than $666,000 was lost to fraud in October 2020, with the average loss at $499 per case. That's up from $316,139 in October 2019 where Aussies were duped out of $365 per scam.
If that trend continues, Australian consumers could lose more than $700,000 to scammers this December, during the peak of Christmas shopping.
The research shows social media platforms, Internet pages and email are increasingly being used by criminals to carry out these scams.
Kate Browne, personal finance expert at Finder, said the demand for online shopping increased the opportunities for fraudsters.
"Festive fraud is likely to be the highest on record in 2020 as criminals ruthlessly adjust their approach to pursue those consumers shopping online," she said.
"With Christmas fast approaching, cybercriminals will be stepping up their efforts by impersonating genuine sellers and businesses."
Online shopping scams roped in over $340,000 for crooks in December 2019 – with people aged 35-44 years old losing more than any other age group.
Finder research shows in March 2020 Aussies were spending 4.2 hours per week online shopping.
"As shoppers enter the peak season for ordering online, it's more important than ever that consumers protect themselves online," she said.
"Do some research on the authenticity and trustworthiness of a website before you hand over your hard-earned cash.
"Don't make it easy for the Grinch to steal Christmas."
How to avoid online shopping scams:
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Disclaimer
The information in this release is accurate as of the date published, but rates, fees and other product features may have changed. Please see updated product information on finder.com.au's review pages for the current correct values.
About Finder
Every month 2.6 million unique visitors turn to Finder to save money and time, and to make important life choices. We compare virtually everything from credit cards, phone plans, health insurance, travel deals and much more.
Our free service is 100% independently-owned by three Australians: Fred Schebesta, Frank Restuccia and Jeremy Cabral. Since launching in 2006, Finder has helped Aussies find what they need from 1,800+ brands across 100+ categories.
We continue to expand and launch around the globe, and now have offices in Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Poland and the Philippines. For further information visit www.finder.com.au.
12.6 million average unique monthly audience (June- September 2019), Nielsen Digital Panel