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Check Point Research Warns Shoppers to Stay Alert this Black Friday as Hackers Launch Their Own Holiday Specials
Will November break all-time shopping records?
November is arguably the peak of the busiest shopping period, as people all over the world prepare for the holiday season. It was recently repoted that over 154 million Americans shopped on Black Friday in 2021, with 88 million of them making purchases online. According to Adobe online holiday, spending will be near $210B this year, a 2.5% increase year on year. However, while consumers are getting ready to bag the best deal, cybercriminals are taking advantage of distracted minds by launching their own shopping “specials” in the form of phishing campaigns and lookalike fake websites. In this blog, we explore some of the campaigns we have seen and offer advice on how shoppers can enjoy threat-free online shopping this November.
- Check Point Research (CPR) found a sharp increase in fake shopping-related websites in the run-up to Black Friday sales.
- About 17% of all malicious files distributed by email in November were related to orders/deliveries and shipping.
- Since the start of this month, 4% of all new shopping-related websites have been found to be malicious.
Louis Vuitton email scam
At the end of October, Check Point researchers observed a malicious phishing email that was sent from the webmail address “psyqgcg@moonfooling[.]com“ and spoofed to appear as if it had been sent from “Louis Vuitton”. The email contained the subject line “Black Friday Sale. Starts at $100. You’ll Fall In Love With Prices.”. The content was designed to persuade the victim to click on two malicious links within the email, both of which redirected to the domain: “jo[.]awojlere[.]ru”. The website claimed to be selling genuine pieces of jewelry, which are in fact counterfeit, at discounted prices as part of a Black Friday sale.
All these websites were designed to look like the legitimate Louis Vuitton site and distributed via email with the subject – “[black Friday sale] Louis Vuitton bags up to _% off! Shop online now!” Over the past month, we have seen an increasing number of incidents involving these domains, reaching close to 15,000 in the week of November 7th.
Delivery and shipping phishing scams
Cybercriminals are not only taking advantage of the busy buying period during the purchase process but also at the delivery stage for those cut-price items. In the first ten days of November, we found that 17% of all malicious files distributed by emails were related to orders/deliveries and shipping.
How phishing works
Phishing is a type of cyberattack where malicious actors send messages pretending to be from a trusted person or company. Phishing messages are designed to manipulate a user into performing an action, such as downloading a malicious file, clicking a suspicious link, or divulging sensitive information. The basic delivery of a phishing attack is through SMS, email, social media, or other electronic communication means.
A phisher may use public channels, such as social media networks, to collect background information about their target. These sources are used to gather details such as the target’s name, job title, and email address, as well as interests and hobbies. The phisher can then use this information to create a personalized spam message. In a phishing campaign, the emails that the target receives will appear to come from a known contact or organization. Attackers often set up fake websites that resemble a trusted entity like the target’s bank, workplace, or university. Through these sites, attackers attempt to collect private information such as usernames and passwords, or payment information.
Some phishing emails can be easily identified due to poor copywriting or improper use of fonts, logos, and layouts. However, many cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated at creating authentic-looking messages, and are using professional marketing techniques to test and improve the effectiveness of their emails.
Avoid the scams and enjoy threat-free shopping this November
Cybercriminals are taking full advantage of the holiday spirit. That is why it is important that everyone takes extra precautions to enjoy a safer online shopping experience. Here are six ways you can stay safe this Black Friday:
Always buy from an authentic and reliable source: Before making a purchase, it is important to authenticate the site we are using to make the purchase. So, instead of following a link sent through on email or text message, go directly to the retailer by searching for them on your selected browser and locating the promotion yourself. Those extra few steps will ensure you are not clicking on any fraudulent links, and you can make your purchase with confidence.
Be alert to similar domain names: Many scam websites will often use a domain name like the brand it is trying to replicate, but with additional letters or misspellings. To ensure that you are not handing over your banking information to scammers, pay attention to the URLs, is there anything usual or unfamiliar? By taking a minute to look for signs that a website may be fraudulent you can quickly identify its legitimacy.
Look for ‘too good to be true offers: Often phishing scams promise extremely good discounts on very popular items. If you receive an offer that does appear to be too good to pass up, don’t rush to buy it before it sells out as chances are, it is a scam. Instead, verify that the seller is authentic by checking other websites to see if they are offering similar discounts.
Always look for the padlock: A quick way to see whether a website is secure is to look at whether the URL starts with HTTPS. This is an indicator that it is compliant with international security standards, and it is usually accompanied by a padlock to reflect this. The absence of these signs could indicate that it is untrustworthy and should be avoided.
Use endpoint security: While we do see an uplift in scam emails during popular shopping periods, phishing emails are used by cybercriminals all year round. That’s why everyone should be looking to implement email security solutions to prevent them from landing in our inboxes in the first place.
Be wary of password reset emails: With many getting their baskets ready and loading their payment information onto their accounts to make checkout faster, hackers will also be looking for ways into people’s shopping accounts. As a result, consumers should be cautious of password reset emails that could be fraudulent. If you do receive one, always visit the website directly (do not click on the links) and change your password.
News
Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.
From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.
“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.
“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”
Stamp of UAE quality
All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.
Mission in a bottle
With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”
Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.
Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.
A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.
“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste, it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.
The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.
Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.
More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.
Home Integrator
Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.
Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.
Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.
With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.
Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.
Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.
Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”
To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.
“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”
Home Integrator
MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

MERED outlined its long-term investment plans and strategic vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025 in Riyadh. The event, a key platform aligned with Vision 2030, brought together government bodies, giga project leaders, and private sector executives to discuss development, contracting, and talent-building opportunities within the Kingdom’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. As part of MERED’s participation, CEO Michael Belton joined a fireside chat where he shared insights into the company’s market entry approach and growth plans for the Saudi market.
“The Kingdom’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth is reshaping residential demand and creating new opportunities for long-term development,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED. “Vision 2030 and ongoing economic diversification are driving strong demand across residential, retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, supported by investor-friendly reforms. In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re seeing increased interest in premium and luxury living, as well as growing demand for Class A office spaces that reflect the ambitions of a modern business environment. MERED is well-positioned to meet these changing market needs through high-quality, innovative developments that offer lasting value.”
Yazan Al-Khalidi, Chief Commercial Director at MERED, joined a panel alongside leading developers, consultants, and contractors to discuss workforce capabilities and the skills required to deliver Saudi Arabia’s giga projects efficiently and at scale. The Kingdom’s real estate sector is projected to contribute 10% to GDP by 2030, while non-oil economic activity now accounts for over 50% of national GDP. Knight Frank’s Saudi Report 2025 reveals that 93% of high-income Saudi nationals are actively seeking to buy property, reinforcing the country’s ambition to build a competitive luxury real estate market.
Alongside its growth plans in Saudi Arabia, MERED is supporting the development of future architectural talent in line with the region’s broader goal of equipping young people with in-demand skills. As part of this effort, the company is sponsoring a select group of students to attend the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School in Turin this July, through its partnership with the prestigious Pininfarina Academy, founded by the renowned Italian design house. The program offers hands-on training and exposure to international design practices, giving participants valuable experience they can apply to architectural projects across the region.
MERED’s participation underscores its broader commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s real estate ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer. With a pipeline of projects already launched in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the 290-meter ICONIC Residences designed by Pininfarina, the brand is well-positioned to introduce high-end, future-ready developments to the Saudi market.
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