TSB says its analysis shows purchase scams accounted for 63% of bank transfer fraud cases reported by its customers between January and September 2025, up from 52% in the same period last year. The bank also recorded an 11% rise in purchase-fraud volumes over the period, with victims losing an average of £452 per scam. Many such scams begin on social media through fake listings for items in demand, including concert and football tickets, trainers, children’s toys, home repairs, games consoles and other tech, vehicle deposits and car parts; deposits for pets, particularly cats and dogs, are also cited.

Richard Daniels, TSB’s director of fraud prevention, said the busy shopping period would see scammers push fake listings for goods that do not exist. With much fraud originating on social media, the bank advised customers to only pay for an item after they can verify it in person and to stay safe online during the sales and into Christmas.

Trend Micro’s Lynette Owens warned scammers are exploiting consumer pressure to save money and shop quickly. She said purchase fraud is not limited to fake ads; criminals use AI to personalise attacks at speed. SmartSearch’s Stuart Morris urged vigilance, advising people not to click links in unexpected messages and to visit retailers’ official sites to check deals, especially where urgency is asserted. Daniels also set out tips to avoid purchase scams ahead of Christmas: beware deals for items that appear to be sold out elsewhere; pay with options that offer protection, such as credit cards for purchases over £100 up to £30,000; use trusted websites with secure payments; and research seller reviews and profiles before buying.