By | June 2, 2025

How To Avoid Online Shopping Scams

Avoiding online shopping scams boils down to staying cautious and knowing what warning signs to look for. Here’s a handy guide to shop safely:

How to Avoid Online Shopping Scams

1. Shop on Trusted Websites

  • Stick to well-known, reputable retailers or marketplaces.
  • Check that the URL starts with https:// and has a padlock icon.

2. Research the Seller

  • Look for reviews and ratings from other buyers.
  • Be wary of sellers with no history or suspiciously perfect reviews.

3. Avoid Deals That Are Too Good to Be True

  • If a deal seems unbelievably cheap, it probably is a scam.

4. Use Secure Payment Methods

  • Pay with credit cards or trusted payment services like PayPal.
  • Avoid wire transfers, money orders, or gift cards as payment.

5. Check Return and Refund Policies

  • Read the seller’s terms carefully before buying.
  • Legitimate sellers will have clear, fair policies.

6. Beware of Phishing Attempts

  • Don’t click links from unsolicited emails claiming to be from retailers.
  • Always go directly to the retailer’s site to log in or check orders.

7. Keep Records

  • Save order confirmations and receipts.
  • Monitor your bank statements for unauthorized charges.

8. Use Strong Passwords

  • Protect your shopping accounts with strong, unique passwords.