Black Friday scam: 10,000 fake shopping sites, some showing up in AI answers
NordVPN found a network of more than 10,000 fake shop websites copying 166 fashion and luxury brands in 26 countries, and some have appeared in search results and AI shopping recommendations next to real shops.
What it means for you
If ChatGPT, Perplexity or Google points you to a cheap brand store, it may be a fake one.
What to do
Before you pay, type the brand's website address yourself instead of clicking a link, and be wary of an "outlet" site you've never heard of.
The details
As of 3 November, 1,549 of the stores were active. They copy the brand's look, language, currency and payment logos, and use believable prices, such as fake Adidas sneakers for €38 to €89, with words like "Outlet" and "Sale".
How-tos from our channels
Search all how-tos ›
Shopify ChatGPT Integration in 2026 — Automate Tasks Most Store Owners Still Do Manually
Shopify · Guide Glimpse
Private Internet Access VPN Firestick
Private Internet Access · Guide Glimpse
How to Use Malwarebytes Free Version in 2026 — 5 Things the Free Version Still Does Well
Malwarebytes · How To Rocket
Deals we checked
All 10 ›
ExpressVPN−80%80% off 2 years + 4 extra monthsChecked on ExpressVPN's site, 8 Nov
NordVPN−78%78% off + 3 extra monthsChecked on NordVPN's site, 8 Nov
Hostinger$1.99/moBlack Friday: up to 85% off web hostingChecked on Hostinger's site, 8 Nov
FastestVPN$40Black Friday: lifetime plan for $40 (93% off)Checked on FastestVPN's site, 8 Nov
More app news
All app news ›- Safety
iPhone Duo scam: fake online stores offer the foldable iPhone at a discount
If you see a cheap iPhone Duo with a ticking timer, it's very likely a scam.
- New app
Tots Weather tells you what to dress your child in today
If mornings are a fight about coats, it settles the snowsuit question.
- New app
MediateMe helps you explain yourself in tricky conversations
If you keep re-explaining the same point by text, it helps you word it differently.
We write every story in our own words from its source and check the facts before it goes up. Source: Cord Cutters News.