Black Friday and other major sales periods attract more than just bargain hunters across the Nordic region. They also draw sophisticated scammers who have refined their techniques using artificial intelligence. As consumer spending increases during these shopping events, authorities report a corresponding rise in payment card fraud through seasonally adapted scams enhanced by AI technology.
Payment technology company Adyen analyzed data from Sweden's Crime Prevention Council and found the period between November and January typically sees approximately 13 percent more reported card fraud compared to February through October. These numbers reflect the increased shopping activity during holiday sales seasons, though they aren't adjusted for normal seasonal consumption patterns.
The analysis also revealed that between 2022 and 2024, a clear majority of card fraud occurred online. Out of 270,000 reported card fraud cases, 230,000 involved transactions without physical cards present, highlighting the digital nature of modern consumer fraud.
Björn Appelgren, digital literacy specialist at the Internet Foundation, explained that scammers have become highly skilled at tailoring their schemes to seasonal shopping patterns. He noted that consumers typically see increased scams around attractive offers or fake package deliveries during Black Friday and Christmas shopping periods.
Scammers' tools have grown increasingly convincing over time, with everything from language to fake websites appearing more professional. Generative AI tools now help fraudsters create polished images and correct language, making their schemes more difficult to detect. Appelgren described AI as a powerful new tool in scammers' arsenals.
The typical scam involves tricking consumers into clicking links in emails or text messages that lead to fake but convincing-looking websites. Fraudsters copy logos and layouts from legitimate company websites to deceive victims. Once on these fake sites, consumers are prompted to enter their card details, which scammers then capture.
Appelgren emphasized the difficulty in identifying fraudulent links and recommended double-checking through official channels. If receiving a message claiming a package is stuck in customs, he advises calling the company directly using a number you've looked up yourself, rather than one provided in the suspicious message.
Consumer protection experts recommend several practical precautions during sales seasons. Think critically and maintain suspicion toward links and unusually low prices. Shop only from official websites of known companies. Read customer reviews, particularly when considering purchases from lesser-known businesses, but search for reviews outside the website itself since scam sites often feature fake testimonials.
Never provide card details in response to unsolicited texts, emails, or phone calls. If you accidentally disclose card information, immediately block the card and contact your bank before filing a police report. For preventive security, consider keeping limited funds on cards used for online shopping and transferring money as needed.
The rise of AI-enhanced fraud represents a significant challenge for Nordic consumers, who traditionally enjoy high levels of digital trust. This development requires increased consumer vigilance even in societies known for strong digital infrastructure and generally trustworthy online environments. The sophistication of these scams means both individuals and companies must adapt their security practices to counter evolving technological threats.