How To Spot Fake Black Friday Deals (And Save Real Money)

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Written by Krist Duro
How To Spot Fake Black Friday Deals (And Save Real Money)

How To Spot Fake Black Friday Deals (And Save Real Money)

Every November, the internet explodes with “once-in-a-lifetime” discounts.
But here's the truth: a shocking number of Black Friday deals are fake — or, at best, misleading.

If you want to save real money this year, you need to look past the flashy banners and focus on the numbers that matter.

Step 1: Research Before You Buy

A deal is only good if the price truly dropped.
Many retailers quietly raise prices in early November so their “discounts” look deeper later.

Do this before Black Friday week:

  • Add your desired products to a wishlist now.
  • Track their prices using tools like Idealo, Keepa, CamelCamelCamel, or Honey.
  • Note the average price — not the “list price.”

If a product's “sale” price is the same as its usual price, walk away.

Step 2: Be Wary of Countdown Timers and “Limited Stock” Alerts

Urgency sells — and that's exactly why marketers love it.
The countdown clocks and flashing “Only 2 left!” labels often reset when you reload the page.

Rule of thumb: if the offer feels too urgent to think about, it's probably designed that way.

Good deals don't expire in 15 minutes.

Step 3: Compare Across Multiple Retailers

Never trust one store's claim of a massive price drop.
Cross-check the same product across at least three different retailers — especially for electronics, gadgets, and beauty items.

You'll quickly notice how “exclusive deals” appear everywhere once you start looking.

Pro tip:
If multiple stores have identical discounts, it's likely a manufacturer-controlled sale, not a real Black Friday markdown.

Step 4: Don't Fall for Bundled or Add-On Traps

Another trick: retailers bundle extra accessories or services to justify a “deal” price.

Example:
A €499 TV “bundle” might include a €20 HDMI cable and a €15 cleaning kit — items you don't need, inflating the “value” artificially.

Stick to standalone products you actually planned to buy.
If the extras weren't on your list, they're not a deal.

Step 5: Check Return Policies and Hidden Fees

A good discount means nothing if you can't return the product.
Always read the fine print — especially on third-party marketplaces.

Look for:

  • Restocking fees
  • Short return windows
  • “Final sale” disclaimers

Also, factor in shipping costs — a €15 “free shipping threshold” can push you into buying more than intended.

Step 6: Avoid Scam Websites and Fake Stores

Each year, hundreds of fake e-commerce sites pop up during November, running ads that look perfectly legitimate.

Spot scams by checking:

  • The URL (must start with https://)
  • Company contact info and customer support page
  • Payment methods — avoid those that only accept wire transfers or crypto

When in doubt, stick to trusted retailers or official brand websites.

Step 7: Use Your Budget as a Safety Net

Your best defense against fake deals is your budget.
When you know your limits, even a “70% off” banner won't trick you into overspending.

Open your MoneyCoach app before shopping:

  • Set a spending cap for “Black Friday 2025”
  • Track each purchase in real time
  • Review your total before checkout

When you shop with awareness, every euro has purpose.

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Final Thought

The best deal isn't the biggest discount — it's the purchase that genuinely improves your life without sabotaging your budget.

Black Friday can be smart, strategic, and satisfying — if you shop with your eyes open and your finances in check.

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