The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned consumers to be vigilant during the Black Friday sales, as there is a risk of increased fraud and scams.

FCCPC’s executive vice chairman, Babatunde Irukera, said in a statement on Thursday that it has received “credible intelligence” that there may be a 135% increase in fake online stores during Black Friday.

Irukera said that these fake stores may try to scam consumers by misrepresenting products, prices, or payment methods.

“FCCPC has received credible intelligence that the customary seasonal sales at deep discounts on a specific Friday, otherwise known as “Black Friday,” may witness an increase of fake online stores by 135%, including scams, misrepresentation and other exploitative conduct,” Irukera stated.

This information is corroborated by publicly available reports such as Netcraft, Irukera added, urging consumers to be vigilant and discerning during this period.

He recommends that consumers should demand and insist on their rights, particularly with respect to full and transparent disclosures.

Irukera also advised consumers to be cautious about providing personal information or making payments online.

“Consumers should only patronise trusted and credible platforms and exercise caution to avoid being victims of fraud and other exploitation,” he added.