Department advises city against Back Friday craze

POLOKWANE – The Department of Economic Development has issued a public advisory to consumers regarding the upcoming Black Friday and shopping for items at seemingly low prices.

For retail stores, Black Friday is typically a day full of special shopping deals and big discounts, and considered the beginning of the holiday shopping season.

“The department would like to remind you that the Black Friday and Cyber Monday concepts are an annual event. So, if your pockets are tight, please continue with your normal daily activities while you budget for the following year,” departmental spokesperson Zaid Kalla mentioned.

He said they were worried about shopping scams that thrive online and in-store at this time of the year.

“Consumers are hereby advised to make informed choices, fully understand the details of agreements, compare prices and be aware of potential scams or fraudulent activities during this shopping period.

“It is during this ‘Black’ shopping concept that we see a rise in the the number of online shoppers and this is an opportune time for cybercriminals. Consumers should therefore be vigilant against phishing attempts, secure their personal information, and shop from reputable and secure websites,” he added.

Kalla shared tips that can be used to shop responsibly:

• Draw up a budget and keep to it.

• Buy cash rather than on credit.

• Only buy items that you need, and not that which you want.

• Avoid making reckless or thoughtless purchases.

• Know what you are going to buy before going into the store or online.

• Check store policies, especially return policies, before you pay.