Kyle James lists four common Black Friday scams targeting Nashville shoppers

Kyle James, a writer for ConsumerAffairs, identified four specific schemes that could cost Davidson County shoppers more than they save during the Black Friday sales period starting this weekend. He warned that these tactics often appear in social media feeds and search results.

The first scheme involves ghost websites. James explained that scammers promote fake sites through convincing social media ads, sometimes featuring celebrities and recognizable brands. These sites are designed to take payment for products that never arrive or to steal credit card information.

A second trick uses ads claiming a store is closing or holding a final close-out. These ads direct shoppers to fake websites that collect personal data. James suggested typing the company name into a browser and adding the word scam to verify the business is legitimate before clicking on any ad.

Scammers also buy sponsored Google listings for customer service numbers of major retailers. James noted that these fake numbers often appear above the actual store number in search results. He advised shoppers to find the real support line through a store's official app or website.

The final scam involves text messages reporting a delayed delivery or a problem with an order. James stated that legitimate companies do not text customers to verify a tracking number or an address. He recommended shoppers avoid clicking links in those messages or providing any information.

Shoppers in Davidson County can apply these checks this week as stores prepare for the holiday rush. James said the goal is to help consumers keep their credit card information safe while they look for deals.