4 New AI-Powered Holiday Scams Now Targeting Minnesota Shoppers

Minnesotans, it’s that time of year again; holiday cheer, cozy gatherings, and way too many online scams. If you're planning to click "Add to Cart" this season, keep your guard up!

Online Shopping Scams Surge in Minnesota

According to a new study by Social Catfish, the Land of 10,000 Lakes lost a jaw-dropping $193 million to online scammers last year. That’s enough to buy everyone in the state about 16 bowls of hotdish each! 🍲

Scammers aren’t slacking. Minnesota ranks 40th in scam victims per capita with 783 per 100,000 residents. With Americans projected to spend a record $240 billion online this holiday season, fraudsters are basically rubbing their hands together like the villains they are, ready to steal your hard-earned cash.

Recently, a friend of mine got duped while shopping online for a handmade blanket from a small shop she thought was local and placed an order. Weeks went by with no updates, and when she tried to contact customer service, she discovered the website was gone. Thankfully, she used her credit card and was able to dispute the charge.

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The AI Scam Revolution

Scammers are also getting sneakier, and as the holiday shopping season begins to peak, they’ve upped their game with four brand-new AI-powered scams targeting unsuspecting shoppers. But don’t worry; there’s hope! Knowing what to watch for can keep you and your wallet safe.

LOOK: Authorities Warn of Elaborate New Scam in Minnesota

Looking for more ways to protect yourself? Scroll down to see 20 other common scams targeting Minnesotans that you should know about.