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Black Friday & Cyber Monday scams

Karolina Karolina • 16 Nov, 2023 7 min read • Blog• Marketing
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Welcome to the realm of retail’s most anticipated annual events – Black Friday and Cyber Monday. I invite you to embark on a journey into the world of bargains, discounts, and the age-old question: Are these deals genuine opportunities or cleverly disguised Black Friday and Cyber Monday scams? Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become synonymous with the frenzy of holiday shopping.

These two days, occurring on the heels of Thanksgiving, have captured the imaginations of consumers around the globe. The allure of substantial discounts, special promotions, and the promise of getting your hands on coveted items at a fraction of their regular price has transformed these shopping extravaganzas into cultural phenomena. 

As these events have evolved, retailers have embraced them with open arms. They invest considerable effort into creating an atmosphere of excitement, using persuasive marketing tactics to lure shoppers into their stores or onto their websites. The anticipation builds, and on the big day, millions of eager shoppers line up at brick-and-mortar stores or eagerly click their way through countless online deals. 

The Black Friday phenomenon

Black Friday, an annual shopping event that takes place on the day after Thanksgiving, has grown from a relatively modest sales day into a full-fledged retail phenomenon. Its roots trace back to the mid-20th century when it was primarily observed in the United States. Initially, Black Friday marked the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, with retailers offering post-Thanksgiving discounts to attract early Christmas shoppers.  

Over time, the concept gained traction, and the allure of Black Friday became undeniable. It’s the combination of deeply discounted prices, limited-time offers, and the thrill of getting the best deals that fuel its popularity. Shoppers often camp out in front of stores, sometimes even days in advance, to secure coveted items at rock-bottom prices.  

The atmosphere is electric, with eager consumers racing through the aisles to snatch up bargains as soon as doors open. The psychology behind this phenomenon is intriguing – the fear of missing out on exclusive deals and the excitement of competing with fellow shoppers creates a sense of urgency and exhilaration.  

I’ve observed that Black Friday has not only become a tradition but also a spectacle, drawing people together in the pursuit of savings, and at times, fostering a competitive shopping spirit that can border on frenzy. Understanding this phenomenon is key to appreciating the intricate dynamics at play during Black Friday, as well as the implications for consumer behavior and decision-making. 

Cyber Monday: the online shopping extravaganza

Cyber Monday, the digital counterpart to Black Friday, has carved its niche in the retail landscape. Born out of the e-commerce boom of the early 2000s, it emerged as a solution to the changing shopping habits of consumers.  

Cyber Monday leverages the convenience of online shopping, offering a plethora of discounts and promotions accessible with just a few clicks. Its popularity stems from the growing prominence of e-commerce and the desire for hassle-free holiday shopping. The appeal lies in the ability to shop from the comfort of one’s home or office, avoiding the long lines and chaos associated with brick-and-mortar stores. 

Cyber Monday appeals to a tech-savvy audience, drawn to the ease of navigating digital storefronts and the promise of exclusive online deals. Moreover, the extended nature of online shopping means that consumers can take their time, conduct thorough research, and make informed choices.  

While the physical rush of Black Friday may be absent, the thrill of securing online bargains and the satisfaction of doorstep deliveries have propelled Cyber Monday into an annual online shopping extravaganza that millions eagerly anticipate.  

 

The dark side of Black Friday and Cyber Monday 

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday have undoubtedly become synonymous with bargains and discounts, it is essential to delve beneath the surface and examine the less-illuminated aspects of these shopping extravaganzas. Let’s get to know some dark aspects of these days: 

• Psychological aspects

The psychology of Black Friday and Cyber Monday is a fascinating yet concerning aspect. These shopping events often trigger a sense of urgency and competition, driving shoppers to make impulsive decisions. The fear of missing out (FOMO) on deals and the thrill of the hunt can cloud judgment, leading to purchases that might not align with genuine needs or budgets. Understanding these psychological triggers is essential for consumers to maintain control over their spending and make rational choices. 

• Deceptive marketing tactics

Retailers are known to employ various marketing tactics that blur the line between genuine discounts and deceptive promotions. One common tactic is inflating original prices to make discounts appear larger than they are. Some advertisements may use vague language or asterisks to hide crucial terms and conditions. These tactics can mislead consumers into believing they are getting a better deal than they truly are. 

• Potential for price manipulation

Black Friday and Cyber Monday can create an environment where price manipulation can thrive. Retailers may artificially inflate prices in the weeks leading up to these events, only to offer seemingly substantial discounts on the day itself. Consumers caught up in the excitement, may overlook the fact that they are not saving as much as they think. Analyzing price histories and comparing prices from different sources is crucial for spotting such manipulations. 

• Risks of impulse buying

Impulse buying is a prevalent issue during these shopping events. The intense marketing and limited-time offers can lead consumers to make hasty decisions, often resulting in regretful purchases. Individuals need to have a shopping plan, set a budget, and stick to it to avoid falling victim to impulsive spending habits. 

• Environmental concerns

Beyond the financial aspects, the environmental implications of Black Friday and Cyber Monday are increasingly significant. The rush for discounted products often leads to excessive consumption, generating more waste and contributing to environmental degradation. I emphasize the importance of considering the long-term environmental consequences of our shopping choices and exploring sustainable alternatives, such as buying less or supporting eco-friendly brands. 

Strategies for smart shopping

The ability to shop smartly is an invaluable skill that can save both money and stress. So dive into some tips: 

Research and comparison shopping

One of the most effective strategies for smart shopping is conducting thorough research and engaging in comparison shopping. Consumers can utilize online resources and tools to compare prices, read product reviews, and assess the value of discounts. For instance, using price comparison websites or mobile apps like PriceGrabber or ShopSavvy enables shoppers to find the best deals available across different retailers and platforms. 

Setting a budget

Setting a budget before embarking on a shopping spree is essential to avoid overspending. Consumers should determine how much they are willing to spend and stick to it. Tools like budgeting apps such as Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) can help individuals track their expenses and stay within their predetermined limits.

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Identifying genuine deals vs. scams

Distinguishing genuine deals from scams requires a discerning eye. Look for clear product descriptions and terms and conditions in advertisements. It’s also advisable to verify discounts by comparing prices across multiple retailers. For example, during Black Friday or Cyber Monday, a consumer can check if the same product is being offered at a similar discount from different reputable sources, ensuring that they are truly getting a deal. 

Real-life example

Imagine a shopper, Lily, looking to purchase a high-end laptop during Cyber Monday. She takes the time to research different models and read reviews on technology websites. By comparing prices across various online retailers, she identifies a substantial discount on the laptop she desires at a reputable online electronics store. Lily also uses a budgeting app to ensure her purchase aligns with her predetermined spending limit, allowing her to confidently purchase while avoiding overspending or falling for deceptive discounts. 

These strategies, when applied judiciously, empower consumers to make informed decisions during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, ensuring that they secure genuine deals and avoid potential pitfalls. 

Consumer rights and protections

In the realm of consumer rights and protections, understanding the legal framework and safeguards in place is essential for any conscientious shopper. Consumer protection laws are designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in the marketplace. These laws vary by country and region but often encompass aspects such as truthful advertising, product warranties, and the right to return or exchange items.  

Consumers must be aware of their rights, and in case of disputes, they can seek recourse through avenues such as consumer protection agencies, ombudsman services, or small claims courts. I emphasize the importance of consumers being well-informed about their rights and knowing how to exercise them. This knowledge empowers individuals to assert their rights and protect themselves from unscrupulous practices, enhancing their confidence. When navigating the treacherous waters of Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping, they can shop wisely.

 

The future of Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Looking to the future, Black Friday and Cyber Monday will transform, reflecting changing consumer behaviors and retail trends. The rise of e-commerce, accelerated by the pandemic, has reshaped shopping, blending brick-and-mortar and online experiences. Retailers adapt by extending sales periods, offering online-exclusive deals, and integrating augmented reality technologies to enhance shopping. Sustainability is also becoming a more prominent factor, with consumers showing an increased preference for eco-friendly products and ethical brands. 

I foresee that the future of these events will likely involve a more extended shopping season, a greater focus on personalization through data analytics, and a stronger emphasis on sustainability and responsible consumption.  By understanding these trends, consumers can prepare for a future where Black Friday and Cyber Monday remain significant yet more innovative and eco-conscious

 

Conclusion

In the world of retail, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are grand spectacles of consumerism requiring caution and responsibility. Through exploring these shopping events, we’ve uncovered their history, psychology, and complex interactions of discounts, marketing, and behavior. While celebrated for the deals they offer, also carry a shadow side. Deceptive marketing, potential price manipulations, and the risk of impulse buying lurk beneath the surface, ensnaring unsuspecting shoppers. Yet, armed with knowledge, consumers can navigate these pitfalls with confidence. Strategies such as research, budgeting, and discerning genuine deals from scams are the keys to making wise purchasing decisions. For more insights, read our detailed blog post on Black Friday marketing.

Moreover, we have delved into the legal framework that safeguards consumers, ensuring they have rights and protections when disputes arise. Awareness of these protections empowers individuals to assert their rights, reinforcing fairness and accountability in the marketplace.

As we look into the future, Black Friday and Cyber Monday will evolve to fit changing shopping habits and values. E-commerce, sustainability, and technological innovation are poised to reshape the landscape. Embracing these shifts, consumers can look forward to more extended shopping seasons, personalized experiences, and eco-conscious choices. 

In conclusion, navigating Black Friday and Cyber Monday brings excitement, opportunities, and potential pitfalls for consumers. With strategies from this exploration, consumers can confidently join shopping events and secure genuine “deals.” By using this knowledge, they contribute to responsible and sustainable consumerism. And if you want to know more about marketing, check out our YouTube channel.