HSBC has issued a warning to shoppers ahead of the Black Friday sales next week.

Originating in the US following Thanksgiving Day, the trend has made its way across the pond with deals available for consumers in the UK.

But ahead of the sales, HSBC UK has teamed up with professional magician Troy von Scheibner to raise awareness of the tricks shoppers should be aware of from scammers.

As part of HSBC UK’s campaign Troy took to the streets to show consumers how fraudsters are playing mind games on us, designed to gain our trust and pressure.

HSBC and Troy von Scheibner warn Brits over Black Friday scams – watch it here

HSBC issue warning to Black Friday shoppers

Black Friday is the perfect time for consumers to grab a bargain, but the dangers of falling victim to a purchase scam grows year-on-year.

Purchase scams -  where fraudsters trick shoppers into paying in advance for goods or services that are never received - are the most common form of APP scam affecting HSBC customers, with 6,218 cases reported so far this year.

Purchase scams increased by 17% in August 2021 compared with August last year, although less scams are being reported in the last few months compared to the start of 2021. A total of £6.98 million was reported lost to purchase scams in 2020.

David Callington, Head of Fraud at HSBC UK, said: “Fraudsters can put consumers under their spell and make them think they are giving out personal or financial information for a legitimate reason.

“If a deal looks too good to be true - it probably is. Use secure payment methods and only buy from sites you trust.

“At HSBC UK, we’re working hard to protect customers against fraud – but there are lots of ways you can help to protect yourself too. By being aware of the tricks fraudsters use you can help keep your money safe.”

The Westmorland Gazette: HSBC UK has teamed up with professional magician Troy von Scheibner in advance of Black Friday. (HSBC)HSBC UK has teamed up with professional magician Troy von Scheibner in advance of Black Friday. (HSBC)

How to spot a scam on Black Friday 2021

Here are five things to look out for this Black Friday.

  • Someone contacts you out of the blue, by call, text or email
  • They claim to be from a trusted organisation, like your bank, utility provider or police
  • They can sound genuine, as they may already have gathered information about you online
  • They often put you under pressure to do something without you having time to think it through properly.
  • Calls, texts and emails may appear genuine but their actions and requests are not

To learn more about purchase scams and how customers can protect themselves, visit the HSBC website.