With Black Friday sales expected to draw thousands of shoppers to malls and online platforms this week, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in eMalahleni has urged the community to remain vigilant.

While retailers prepare for record-breaking sales, criminals and scammers are equally ‘on duty,’ ready to exploit the shopping frenzy.

With the official Black Friday day set for November 28, SAPS officials have cautioned that crowded shopping centres, ATMs, and retail outlets often create opportunities for pickpockets, card skimmers, and opportunistic thieves.

Shoppers are advised to keep their belongings secure, avoid displaying large sums of cash, and remain alert in queues and parking areas.

“Fraudsters are increasingly using fake websites, social media adverts, and phishing emails to lure bargain-hunters with ‘too-good-to-be-true’ deals. Victims often pay for items that never arrive, or unknowingly share personal banking details with criminals,” said the Witbank SAPS spokesperson, Sergeant David Ratau.

To avoid falling prey to these scams, residents are urged to verify websites before making purchases, use secure payment methods instead of instant transfers, and avoid clicking suspicious links.

“Shoppers should also refrain from sharing sensitive banking information online and report any fraudulent activity immediately to SAPS,” Ratau added.

Ratau emphasised that safety is a shared responsibility.

“Black Friday should be about savings, not losses. Criminals thrive on carelessness. By staying alert, verifying online deals, and reporting suspicious activity, residents can protect themselves and others,” he said.

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