Many people take advantage of Black Friday to buy that item they have been eyeing for a long time at a more attractive price. But you have to be careful with the siren song of many promotions. Being careful is half the battle to avoid being harmed.
Black Friday (this year it takes place on November 29th) is one of the most awaited moments of the year for those who like to shop and take advantage of great promotions. Every year, millions of consumers in Portugal and around the world wait for this date to purchase products at reduced prices.
However, Black Friday can also be a period of traps and promotions that are not always as advantageous as they seem.
To avoid falling for fraud or misleading promotions and really get the best deals, it is essential to be well prepared to guarantee a safe and profitable shopping experience.
Plan purchases in advance
The first tip to make the most of Black Friday is to plan in advance. Make a list of the products you really need or want to buy and set a maximum budget to spend. This list will help you stay focused and avoid impulsive purchases, which are common during this season due to the numerous promotions.
Check the prices of products of interest before the event and write them down. This is an important step to be able to compare and understand whether the discount offered is really worth it.
Research prices in advance
One of the most effective tricks to ensure you're getting a good deal is to monitor the prices of the products you want to buy weeks before Black Friday.
Many stores raise prices just before the discount season to make it look like they are offering great deals on the day. By having a record of the original prices, you will be able to identify whether the discount is real or just an illusion.
There are several online tools that allow you to monitor price changes, such as Google Shopping or price comparison sites.
Choose trusted stores and websites
During Black Friday, numerous online stores and promotion advertisements appear on social networks, which are sometimes unreliable.
To avoid problems such as fraud, poor quality products or even card cloning, always choose known and trustworthy stores. Check whether the website has an active security protocol, indicated by “https” at the beginning of the address, and read the reviews and opinions of other customers.
Be wary of exaggeratedly low prices, as they are often a sign of a scam.
Exchange and return policies
Before completing any purchase, check the store's exchange and return policies.
Many stores offer bigger discounts during Black Friday, but adjust their return policies, making the exchange or refund process difficult. Make sure you understand the conditions before making a purchase, especially on items like electronics or clothing.
In Portugal, it is always possible to return a product purchased online within 14 days, but some physical stores may have different rules during this period.
online shopping
Online shopping has become increasingly popular and, on Black Friday, it can offer several advantages.
In addition to avoiding queues and the rush of physical stores, online stores often have exclusive promotions and allow easy price comparisons. However, it is essential to be cautious and ensure that you are purchasing from safe websites, as mentioned previously.
Additionally, pay attention to shipping costs, which can increase the final purchase price and reduce the benefit of the discount.
Avoid impulse purchases
With so many deals and discounts flashing in front of you, it's easy to give in to impulse purchases. However, buying something just because it's on sale can result in unnecessary expenses and extra weight on your budget.
Remember your initial planning and focus on the list of products you set as a priority. Black Friday should be an opportunity to save, not to accumulate spending on products that, in the end, you won't use.
Enjoy Cyber Monday
If for some reason you weren't able to take advantage of Black Friday, Cyber Monday is another opportunity to find promotions.
This event takes place on the Monday following Black Friday and is focused on online shopping, with significant discounts on technology and other digital products. Discounts can often be the same or even greater than those on Black Friday, so it's worth paying attention.
Protect your personal data
Finally, one of the most important precautions to take during Black Friday is the security of your data. As the volume of online purchases increases, cybercriminal activity also increases.
Always use a secure credit card or trusted payment platforms, such as PayPal, which offer an extra layer of protection.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to carry out transactions and make sure you are in a secure environment before entering your bank details.
Black Friday can be an excellent opportunity to make good purchases and save money, but it is crucial to be well prepared and aware of the possible risks.
With the right planning and taking the precautions above, you can avoid fraud and ensure you are making the best choices. Remember that a discount is only worth it if you really need the product and if the price is fair. Happy shopping!
Source: pplware.sapo.pt
