Formula 1 is returning to the Sepang International Circuit from 2 to 4 October 2026 after a 9-year absence.
With local fan excitement building, Kaspersky is warning supporters to watch out for fake online stores impersonating official Formula 1 merchandise retailers to steal payment details and personal data.
How fake Formula 1 storefronts trick buyers
Security researchers at Kaspersky found that these scam sites mimic legitimate retailers by using genuine team logos, driver imagery, and false claims of official certification.
They feature standard online store capabilities including product search tools, user account creation, shopping carts, and promises of global delivery.
The danger occurs during checkout, where entered financial information is captured by fraudsters, leaving buyers with financial losses and no delivery of their merchandise.
Cybercriminals target fan excitement during major events
Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky, explained that major sporting events create moments where people lower their guard.
Cybercriminals capitalise on this reduced scrutiny when excitement over favourite drivers or teams takes priority over basic safety checks, making it vital for fans to verify seller authenticity before purchasing.
How to avoid falling for fake Formula 1 stores
To keep your money and personal data safe, verify the web address directly before making any payment.
Look closely at the URL spelling and confirm whether the vendor is an official partner. As a rule of thumb, if a deal appears too good to be true, it probably is.
When shopping on ecommerce platforms such as Lazada and Shopee, ensure you purchase only from verified official stores usually designated as LazMall or Shopee Mall.
You should also run cybersecurity software to block phishing attempts automatically, turn on instant bank transaction alerts, and review your account statements regularly.
If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to the National Scam Response Centre immediately by calling 997. The faster you make the report, the higher your chances of recovering your funds.
