Columbus, OH – As Cyber Monday kicks off across Ohio, state officials are urging Columbus residents to stay alert for a surge in Christmas-season online scams. Cybersecurity analysts warn that 2025 could bring one of the highest spikes in digital fraud the state has ever recorded.
According to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, scammers frequently target Cyber Monday shoppers with fake retail websites, bogus coupon codes, and Christmas-themed phishing emails. This year’s attempts are particularly advanced, using convincing branding and realistic retailer impersonations to trick shoppers hunting for holiday deals.
A leading threat this season is fake look-alike retail websites. These fraudulent pages mimic stores like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and even local Ohio businesses. Shoppers are often lured by “Mega Holiday Deals” offering 70–90% off. Once payment is entered, scammers steal financial information or vanish altogether.
Columbus residents are also reporting an uptick in delivery-text scams. These messages claim a USPS, UPS, or FedEx package is delayed or needs immediate verification. Clicking the link can install malware or expose sensitive banking details.
Cybersecurity officials recommend several steps to stay safe today:
• Shop only through official retailer apps or verified websites
• Avoid clicking tracking links sent by text or unsolicited email
• Double-check URLs for unusual characters or misspellings
• Use credit cards instead of debit cards for stronger fraud protection
• Be skeptical of deep discounts that seem “too good to be true”
With Christmas less than a month away, state officials want Ohio families to enjoy the excitement of the holiday season—while staying alert to online threats.
Columbus residents: Have you seen suspicious holiday deals or scam texts today? Share what you’re noticing to help protect others.
