TL;DR: This scam wave overlaps with general back-to-school shopping in August, when demand for laptops and tablets for the new school year is at its yearly peak. Buy devices from authorized retailers or the manufacturer directly, and be wary of marketplace listings priced far below the device's typical retail price.
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This scam wave overlaps with general back-to-school shopping in August, when demand for laptops and tablets for the new school year is at its yearly peak.
How the Scam Plays Out
Fake electronics retailers and marketplace listings advertise name-brand laptops at deeply discounted prices, taking payment for devices that never arrive or arrive as counterfeit, non-functional units.
How to Protect Yourself
Buy devices from authorized retailers or the manufacturer directly, and be wary of marketplace listings priced far below the device's typical retail price.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading Back-to-School Scams Targeting Parents.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see Open Enrollment 401(k) and Benefits Scams.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does this typically happen?
This scam wave overlaps with general back-to-school shopping in August, when demand for laptops and tablets for the new school year is at its yearly peak.
What tactics are used?
Fake electronics retailers and marketplace listings advertise name-brand laptops at deeply discounted prices, taking payment for devices that never arrive or arrive as counterfeit, non-functional units.
How can I protect myself?
Buy devices from authorized retailers or the manufacturer directly, and be wary of marketplace listings priced far below the device's typical retail price.
What should I do if I’ve already been targeted?
Stop all payments immediately, contact your bank or card issuer to see if a transaction can be reversed or flagged, and report the incident to the appropriate consumer protection body.