Billings, MT – As Cyber Monday unfolds across Montana, state officials are sounding the alarm for Billings residents, warning that this year’s holiday shopping season is bringing an unusually sharp rise in digital fraud. With Christmas only weeks away, online purchases are expected to break regional records, and scammers are moving aggressively to take advantage of the rush.
Cybersecurity teams with the Montana Department of Justice’s Office of Consumer Protection report that 2025 is already shaping up to be one of the most dangerous years for online shoppers in the state. Fraudulent retail sites, fake discount codes, and Christmas-themed phishing campaigns are all being deployed to target Montanans who rely heavily on online holiday deals.
Growing Wave of Copycat Retail Websites
One of the most alarming trends involves copycat e-commerce sites designed to mimic well-known retailers. These pages often feature holiday graphics, countdown timers, and “Mega Christmas Deals” claiming up to 70–90% off electronics, toys, and seasonal gifts. They look legitimate at first glance, but once a shopper enters payment information, financial data is stolen or the website disappears.
Officials say many of these scam sites imitate brands that Billings residents trust most, including Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and Northwest-based retailers. Some even use spoofed customer service chat boxes or fake order confirmations to appear authentic.
Delivery Text Scams Hit Billings Phones
Alongside fake shopping sites, Billings residents are reporting a surge in package-delivery text scams. These messages often impersonate UPS, USPS, or FedEx, claiming a parcel is delayed or missing address information. The message then includes a link urging recipients to “update delivery details.”
Cyber experts warn that clicking these links can trigger malware downloads, credential theft, or unauthorized access to banking apps. Because package volume surges during the holiday season, these scams become more convincing and widespread.
Why Montana Is a Prime Target This Season
Analysts say scammers are increasingly targeting rural and mid-sized markets where online shopping is heavily relied upon during winter months. In Montana, early snowstorms, long travel distances, and limited local retail options push more families toward Cyber Monday and Christmas-week e-commerce deals.
This seasonal dependence on online shopping creates ideal conditions for fraud networks operating during the holiday rush.
Expert Tips to Stay Safe Online Today
Cybersecurity specialists recommend several practical steps for Billings shoppers to avoid falling victim during Cyber Monday and the rest of December:
Shop through verified retailer websites or official store apps.
Fake discount sites are the number-one threat this season.
Avoid clicking tracking links sent via text or unexpected email.
Visit the carrier’s official website instead.
Check URLs carefully.
Look for misspellings, unusual characters, or unfamiliar domain endings.
Use credit cards rather than debit cards.
Credit cards offer stronger fraud protection and easier dispute processes.
Be cautious of unusually cheap holiday deals.
If an offer seems far below market value, it’s likely designed to lure victims.
What Billings Families Should Watch for Next
Officials expect scam activity to spike again during:
- Early December gift-shopping weekends
- Last-minute “Christmas Week Flash Sales”
- Post-holiday returns and gift-card redemption
The Montana Department of Justice urges residents to report suspicious websites, texts, or fraudulent charges immediately to help limit community impact.
Staying Vigilant Through Christmas
The holiday season remains one of the most exciting times for Montana families, but experts emphasize the importance of staying alert as cybercriminals become more sophisticated each year. Taking simple precautions today can prevent financial loss and protect personal information as Christmas approaches.
Share your experiences in the comments to help keep fellow Billings shoppers safe.
