This podcast was created by Google's NotebookLM based on the following YouTube video - https://youtu.be/N8wUXZ7iNFA

The provided source gives essential guidance for consumers seeking to navigate Black Friday sales safely, focusing on avoiding online scams perpetrated by "cybercrooks." The text details three major fraudulent tactics, including the creation of "Evil Twin" websites that closely resemble legitimate retailers and the use of fear-inducing "Fake Order" panic emails to trick recipients into clicking dangerous links. A key warning addresses the newer threat of the AI "Smooth Talker," where sophisticated artificial intelligence is employed to write professional phishing emails that lack obvious spelling or grammar mistakes. To shield against these attempts, the source strongly recommends using credit cards instead of debit cards for purchases, which offers better protection against financial loss. Shoppers are also advised to execute the "Hover" maneuver to verify a link's true destination and to ensure all devices and software are fully updated before engaging in holiday shopping.I used NotebookLM to put this together based on my Blog post: https://bob3160.blogspot.com/2025/11/cybercrooks-and-black-friday-deals.html

Video - https://youtu.be/obk0ZQVAJqY

🎄💻 ‘Happy Holidays — From Your Friendly Hacker!’ 🎅

Tis the season for joy, giving… and cyber-grinches! Hackers love the holidays just as much as you do — but for all the wrong reasons. From fake shopping deals to sneaky charity scams, they’re waiting for you to drop your guard.

This quick, easy-to-follow guide shows you how to shop smarter, click safer, and avoid festive fraud — no tech degree required. Perfect for beginners and seniors alike, it’ll help keep your holidays merry, bright, and hacker-free. 🕵️‍♂️✨

🔐 Stay smart. Stay safe. Stay scam-free — even when the hackers come bearing gifts!

I used ChatGPT 5, ScreenPal, and Pictory.ai to put this information together.

If you're interested in trying Pictory.ai please use the following link.

https://pictory.ai?ref=t015o