ALBANY, NY (Nov. 30, 2025) — New York officials issued an urgent consumer alert ahead of Cyber Monday, warning shoppers about a surge in AI-generated fake websites and counterfeit products targeting holiday gift buyers.
“There are more and more fake websites and scammers out there trying to take advantage of New Yorkers purchasing gifts for their loved ones this time of year,” Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said. “These tips from the Division of Consumer Protection will keep you one step ahead of these fraudsters.”
The New York State Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection highlighted the growing threat of AI-created online stores and counterfeit goods. Federal Trade Commission data showed New York consumers reported more than $17 million in losses from online shopping scams in 2024 and over $41 million from business imposter scams.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized nearly 79 million counterfeit items in fiscal 2025, with clothing, consumer electronics, toys and medications among the most common fakes.
“Don’t take the clickbait while browsing online this Cyber Monday,” Mosley added.
The division urged shoppers to verify sellers, inspect URLs for slight changes such as replacing a zero with the letter “o” or adding dashes, avoid direct purchases from social media links, and check for AI-generated product images with blurry areas or inconsistent details.
Other recommendations include reading return policies, watching for algorithmic pricing disclosures required under new state laws signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, buying only from authorized retailers, using credit cards instead of debit cards, and ensuring websites use “https” encryption.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
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