Richmond, VA – As shoppers across Virginia jump into Cyber Monday deals and Christmas gift buying, state officials are urging Richmond residents to stay cautious online today. Cybersecurity experts warn that 2025 is expected to bring one of the biggest waves of holiday-season scams the Commonwealth has seen in years.
According to the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, Cyber Monday consistently triggers a spike in digital fraud, but this year’s scams are more advanced and harder to spot. Criminals are deploying realistic-looking fake shopping websites, fraudulent discount codes, and Christmas-themed phishing emails designed to pressure shoppers racing to grab limited-time deals.
One of the fastest-growing threats in Virginia is copycat retailer websites. These fraudulent pages mimic major brands like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and even popular regional businesses. Scammers lure shoppers with “Holiday Mega Deals” offering up to 90% off, then disappear after capturing payment information.
Richmond residents are also reporting a sharp increase in delivery-text scams. These texts impersonate USPS, UPS, or FedEx and claim a package is delayed or requires address confirmation. Clicking the link can lead to malware, stolen passwords, or unauthorized charges.
Cybersecurity experts recommend several steps to stay safe this Christmas shopping season:
• Use only verified retailer websites or official store apps
• Avoid clicking tracking links sent by text or unexpected email
• Double-check website URLs for misspellings or unusual characters
• Use credit cards instead of debit cards for better fraud protection
• Be skeptical of extreme discounts and “too good to be true” deals
With Christmas less than four weeks away, Virginia families are encouraged to enjoy the holiday excitement—just with a bit more online caution.
Richmond residents: Have you spotted suspicious holiday deals or scam texts today? Share your experience to help warn others.
