Visa blocked 280 percent more suspected fraud in the UK on Black Friday

This Black Friday, fraudsters once again made concerted efforts to target bargain hunters hoping to cash in on the shopping frenzy, but this year far fewer succeeded.

Visa blocked 280 percent more suspected fraud in the UK on Black Friday 2025 compared to Black Friday 2024, and 63 percent more compared to the previous Friday. Across Europe, Visa blocked 140 percent more suspected fraud on this year’s Black Friday, compared to last year’s, and 40 percent more compared to the previous Friday.

David Capezza, Interim Chief Risk Officer, Visa Europe said: “Black Friday still remains a prime time for retailers – and especially for online shopping. However, where there is money to be spent, fraudsters will always try to take advantage – which is why Visa’s network never takes a day off. We protect every transaction, no matter how big or small, helping consumers shop with peace of mind all year round.”

Visa’s analysis of this year’s Black Friday activity serves as a timely reminder that while the holidays are one of the most joyful times of the year, fraudsters see this season as an opportunity to exploit the festive cheer. Common scams Visa has identified include fake shopping sites, package delivery scams, “extra holiday cash” job scams, travel fraud and holiday charity scams. Learn more about these scams in Visa’s Holiday Threats report here.

Visa has invested $12 billion in technology and infrastructure in the last five years, including in cyber security and fraud. In just one year, the Visa Scam Disruption team has identified and blocked more than €220 million in Europe – and over $1 billion globally – in scam attempts before they could impact consumers.

Image courtesy of Unsplash. Photo credit: Joshua Mayo.