Air Fryers: The Must-Have Gadget and How to Avoid Black Friday Scams

Air fryers are taking the culinary world by storm, becoming the gadget everyone wants to get their hands on. With Black Friday around the corner, the excitement is palpable, but so are the risks. NatWest's recent warning about a £10m scam targeting air fryer enthusiasts is a wake-up call for all shoppers.

Key Takeaways:

• Air fryers are among the top targets for purchase scams this holiday season.
• Over £10m could be stolen by criminals through these scams, as per NatWest's warning.
• Shoppers are advised to be vigilant, especially on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and eBay.

The Rise of Air Fryer Scams

As the cost-of-living crisis bites, many are looking for ways to reduce their energy bills, making air fryers an attractive option. However, criminals are exploiting this demand, offering non-existent goods at too-good-to-be-true prices. NatWest highlights that, alongside air fryers, personal heaters and gaming consoles are also high-risk items.

Spotting and Avoiding Purchase Scams

• Too Good to Be True: Always question deals that seem unbelievable.
• Unknown Websites: Be cautious of unfamiliar online retailers. Stick to known and reputable sites.
• Secure Payment Methods: Use recommended payment options from trusted sellers.
• Credit Card Protection: For purchases between £100 and £30,000, using a credit card offers additional safety.
• Authenticity Checks: Verify the item’s brand and purchase from authorized sellers.
• Be Email-Savvy: Avoid clicking on links from unsolicited emails.
• Log Out: Always sign out of websites after making a purchase.
• Take Your Time: Don’t rush. Scammers use pressure tactics to trick you.
• Challenge Suspicious Offers: It’s okay to refuse deals that seem sketchy.
• Immediate Action: If you suspect a scam, contact your bank immediately using the number 159 and report to Action Fraud.

Stay Informed and Secure This Black Friday

The allure of Black Friday deals is undeniable, but so is the risk of falling victim to a scam. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and still snag the best deals on your favorite gadgets like air fryers.

For more insights and tips on navigating Black Friday safely and making the most out of this shopping season, keep an eye on trusted sources and remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay safe and shop smart!

(First reported by: HuffPost UK Shopping Team, 2022)