A flurry of discounts and online bargains is set to flood digital storefronts this Cyber Monday, which this year happens to fall on December’s opening day. Traditionally held on the Monday after Thanksgiving in the United States, the event was created by retailers as a way to extend the momentum of Black Friday and boost online sales.
Coined by National Retail Federation executives Ellen Davis and Scott Silverman, “Cyber Monday” first appeared in a Shop.org press release on November 28, 2005. Nearly two decades later, it’s become a global fixture and the online counterpart to Black Friday, giving smaller e-commerce brands a rare chance to compete with retail giants.
Today, Cyber Monday functions as an extra day of Black Friday–level discounts, fueled by email blitzes and heightened social media promotion as shoppers hunt for final bargains.
The Hidden Traps
But like any major online shopping event, Cyber Monday brings risks. Consumer advocates warn that shoppers are especially vulnerable to misleading offers, with uncertified sites and vague contact information often signaling potential fraud.
Greece’s Independent Authority “Consumer Ombudsman” and the European Consumer Centre are urging buyers to remain vigilant and to double-check information before clicking “purchase.”
Cyber Monday Essentials
• Verify previous prices: Ensure that pre-discount prices are genuine by checking price histories and comparing offers.
• Read the fine print: Review return, cancellation and exchange policies. Online shoppers are entitled to a 14-day withdrawal period.
• Use secure payment methods: Look for https connections and valid SSL certificates.
• Check retailer legitimacy: Confirm physical addresses, contact information and legal details. User reviews can be telling.
• Avoid impulse buys: Flash deals and countdown timers are designed to pressure shoppers. Buy only what you truly need.
• Confirm availability: Especially for costly items or shops with limited stock, get explicit confirmation before paying.
The Consumer Ombudsman encourages shoppers to approach the avalanche of offers with awareness and critical thinking. In cases of disputes, consumers can file a report directly through the authority’s official website.
Source: tovima.com
