‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ Scam Websites [Explained]

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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Online shopping is convenient and often cheaper than going to a physical store. However, it also comes with some risks, such as falling prey to scam websites that offer too-good-to-be-true deals. One of these scams is the ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ scam, which has been reported by many consumers around the world. In this blog post, we will explain what are ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ scam websites, how they operate, and what to do if you have fallen victim to them.

Factory Outlet Clearance Sale Scam

What are ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ Scam Websites?

‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ scam websites are fake online stores that claim to sell branded products at extremely low prices. They use the name ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ and trick people into thinking that the store is closing and everything must be sold. They often advertise on social media platforms, such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, and use images and logos of popular brands, such as Nike, Adidas, Apple, and Samsung. They also use fake reviews and testimonials to make their sites look legitimate.

How do the ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ Scam Websites operate?

The ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ scam websites lure customers with attractive offers and discounts, such as 80% off or buy one get one free. They ask customers to pay with credit cards or other online payment methods, such as PayPal. However, once the payment is made, the customers either receive nothing at all, or receive counterfeit or inferior goods that do not match the description or quality of the original products. The scam websites also do not provide any contact information, customer service, or refund policy. They may also use the customers’ personal and financial information for identity theft or fraud.

What to do if you have fallen victim to the ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ Scam Websites?

If you have fallen victim to the ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ scam websites, you should take the following steps:

  • Contact your bank or credit card company and report the fraudulent transaction. You may be able to reverse the charge or get a refund.
  • Change your passwords and security questions for your online accounts, especially if you have used the same ones for the scam website.
  • Report the scam website to the authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US, or the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) in Australia. You can also report it to the social media platform where you saw the advertisement.
  • Warn your friends and family about the scam and advise them not to buy anything from the ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ scam websites.

Conclusion

The ‘Factory Outlet Clearance Sale’ scam websites are a common online shopping fraud that targets unsuspecting consumers. They use deceptive tactics to sell fake or non-existent products at very low prices. To avoid falling for this scam, you should always be careful when shopping online and do some research before buying anything from a new or unfamiliar website. You should also check the reviews and ratings of the website and the products, and look for signs of legitimacy, such as contact information, customer service, and refund policy. If you have fallen victim to this scam, you should report it to your bank or credit card company, change your passwords and security questions, report it to the authorities and social media platforms, and warn others about it.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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