Black Friday scams: Regulator urges consumers to be first 'line of defence'

The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) is urging the public to buy goods only from compliant, authentic online platforms this Black Friday.

The NRCS said consumers must be their own first line of defence.

The regulator’s Khulekani Ngcobo warned that items most linked to scams include refurbished geysers, electronics and audio-visual equipment.

"Price is important, but safety must always come first, especially during Black Friday, when the pressure to grab a deal makes people take shortcuts. So, consumers’ behaviour plays a massive role in reducing or increasing the risk."

FlySafair also sounded the alarm on Black Friday scams.

The airline’s Kirby Gordon said irresistible deals and high transaction volumes make consumers vulnerable to fraud.

"There are some amazing Black Friday deals out there, but the key is really to let calm heads prevail. You need to check the company’s official website address."