Little Rock, AR – Arkansas shoppers diving into Cyber Monday deals today are being urged to stay alert as Christmas-season scams ramp up across the state. Cybersecurity analysts warn that 2025 could bring one of the largest waves of online fraud ever seen in Arkansas, with Little Rock residents among the top targets.
According to the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office, scammers commonly use Cyber Monday to push out fake retail websites, fraudulent coupon codes, and Christmas-themed phishing emails that mimic trusted retailers. Officials say criminals bank on shoppers acting quickly during flash sales—clicking before double-checking.
One of the biggest threats this year is copycat retail websites. These scam pages are designed to look almost identical to Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and even popular Arkansas-based retailers. They lure customers with dramatic “Holiday Mega Deals” offering up to 80–90% off electronics, toys, and Christmas gifts, only to steal payment information or vanish after checkout.
Little Rock residents have also reported a rise in package-delivery text scams. These messages impersonate UPS, USPS, or FedEx and claim a package is delayed or requires address verification. Clicking the link can expose victims to malware, stolen passwords, or compromised bank accounts.
Cybersecurity officials recommend several steps to stay safe today:
• Use verified retailer websites or official store apps
• Avoid clicking tracking links in texts or unexpected emails
• Carefully inspect URLs for misspellings or unusual characters
• Use credit cards instead of debit cards for stronger fraud protection
• Treat extreme discounts as potential red flags
With Christmas less than four weeks away, Arkansas families are encouraged to enjoy the excitement of the season—while staying alert to scammers preying on Cyber Monday shoppers.
Little Rock residents: Have you seen suspicious holiday deals or scam texts today? Share your experience to help protect others.
