NatWest launches ‘scamvent’ calendar: 12 products that should come with a ‘scammable’ warning

December’s almost here and so are the scammers. While you’re busy hunting for deals, they’re lurking in the shadows, looking for their next target. In fact, a staggering 41% of Brits say they receive more scam attempts during November and December, according to research by NatWest.  

To help you stay one step ahead, the bank has launched its 'scamvent' calendar, which each advent window revealing the most ‘scammable’ products.  

Based on research from 980 people who’ve fallen victim – or know someone who has – here’s your ‘scamvent’ holiday shopping survival guide. 

Phones 

If that shiny smartphone deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Just over a quarter (26%) of us have been tricked into paying for a new phone only to receive a stolen or counterfeit model, or sometimes, nothing at all. Watch out for dodgy social media ads and marketplace listings. 

Tickets 

Trying to get tickets to see your favourite band? Best be on your guard. More than a fifth (23%) of shoppers have been duped into buying fake event tickets that aren’t accepted at a venue, if they’re even sent anything at all. 

Gift cards and vouchers  

A similar amount (23%) of us have also been conned into buying worthless vouchers from fake emails, sites, or social media ads. 

Laptops and tablets 

Before you buy a new laptop or tablet, be mindful that 21% of people have been tricked into buying from what appears to be a trusted retailer offering promotions from well-known brands. But really, the ads direct you to fake registration websites which steal your personal details and payment information.  

Clothing  

If the price of that Versace dress seems too good to be true, the chances are it is. Just under one in five (19%) shoppers have been conned into buying counterfeit clothing, low-quality knock-offs, or even nothing at all. Fake online stores are often set up which quickly disappear.  

Home tech appliances 

You might think buying a microwave or vacuum cleaner online doesn’t come with much risk. Think again. More than one in seven (15%) Brits have been tricked into buying fake, inferior or even non-existent home appliances through phishing scams, misleading ads or fake websites.  

Jewellery  

That shiny diamond ring might not be what it seems. Over one in ten (12%) shoppers have fallen for a luxury jewellery scam. Fraudsters use false certifications to promise authenticity but deliver nothing, or cheap knock-offs.  

Video games 

Gamers beware. Around 11% have been been scammed into buying discounted, ‘newly-released’ games that turn out to be fake or completely different than the one advertised. Worse still, you might get nothing at all. 

Cars and vehicles 

Buying a car online might be convenient, but it’s risky. Again, 11% have lost big money to fraudsters posing as private sellers or dealers, promising cars at great prices but never delivering. 

Watches 

Watch out for that luxury watch deal. One in ten (10%) of shoppers have been scammed into buying fake watches. You might think you're getting a Rolex, but all you’ll get is a big disappointment.  

Luxury handbags 

A designer handbag at an 80% discount? Do your homework first, as 9% have been duped into buying fake designer bags. Be sure you won’t be getting a knock-off (or nothing at all) before treating yourself or a loved one to a Louis Vuitton. 

Trainers and shoes 

The same can be said with trainers and shoes, as just under one in 10 (9%) have been scammed into buying counterfeit or non-existent footwear through fake ads on social media and websites.  

How to get your money back 

Less than 30% of people who were scammed bothered to contact their bank, data by Lloyds’ shows. 

Don’t be one of them. 

Start by reaching out to the retailer for a refund. If they refuse, contact your bank and ask them to raise a claim. If you used a Visa, Mastercard or American Express, you may be able to make a chargeback claim.  

Ask your bank about a section 75 claim. This lets you make a claim against your credit card company to get your money back if a retailer or trader lets you down and refuses to honour the contract properly.  

Still nothing after eight weeks? You can reach out to the financial ombudsman. 

You should try asking the retailer for a refund first. If they refuse, you can contact your bank – they may be able to help by raising a claim to get the money back. 

Reporting a scam 

Reporting scams can save other people from getting tricked. Remember, scams are designed to fool anyone, so don’t be embarrassed about reporting them.  

You can report the scam to Citizens Advice and they’ll pass information onto Trading Standards who will decide whether or not to investigate. 

It’s also a good idea to report scams to Action Fraud on their website or by calling 0300 123 2040. 

If you spot an online scam advert, you can report it to the Advertising Standards Authority. 

Keep one step ahead and find out more about how to protect yourself in our guide on how to outsmart online scammers.