The FBI’s latest Public Service Announcement warns Internet users about a surge in online shopping scams.
According to complaints received by the bureau, more and more online shoppers are being directed to fraudulent websites via social media and online search engines. These bogus vendors are actually making the most of the health crisis, social distancing and remote workforce.
For example, online shoppers seeking facemasks, gym equipment, small appliances, tools and furniture reported never receiving their purchases. While it may seem unlikely to find this variety of merchandise on a single e-commerce website, victims were lured with ads flaunting below-market prices.
