Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

2026 Sees Surge in Online Shopping Scams, Experts Warn

1/18/2026

41 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Better Business Bureau in Chicago warns online shopping fraud is the leading 2026 scam, driven by fake websites and ads for pets and rare items.
Phishing and employment scams, including fake work-from-home jobs, follow closely.
Other scams include counterfeit products, advance-fee loans, identity theft, and deceptive credit card offers.
To avoid scams, consumers should verify websites and take their time, because scammers exploit urgency.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Better Business Bureau in Chicago warns online shopping fraud is the leading 2026 scam, driven by fake websites and ads for pets and rare items.
Phishing and employment scams, including fake work-from-home jobs, follow closely.
Other scams include counterfeit products, advance-fee loans, identity theft, and deceptive credit card offers.
To avoid scams, consumers should verify websites and take their time, because scammers exploit urgency.