Tips to Avoid Online Shopping Scams
Shopping online can save you time and money, but it can also be costly if you’re not careful about scams involving shopping and shipping.
That’s because scammers target people looking for ‘amazing’ deals or trick them with ‘free’ offers or false shipping problems.
When shopping on the Internet, experts recommend that you buy from trusted businesses whenever possible. Don’t be tricked by super-low prices from unknown sellers.
How to Protect Yourself
Make Sure the Business is Legitimate
If you’ve never heard of it, check online reviews or articles. Don’t be tricked into giving out personal or financial information to scam sites that will never deliver the product you want.
Pay with a Credit Card
They often have built-in consumer protections that guard you in cases of fraud.
Don’t Be Fooled By Promises
Don’t be fooled by unsolicited emails promising free products or coupons. Crooks that want to steal personal information or to place malware on your computer often design these emails.
Only Buy from Reputable Sellers
Many big shopping sites also serve as a storefront for independent, third-party sellers. It is a good idea to only buy from sellers that have a good reputation rating with lots of reviews.
Tips to Avoid Delivery Scams
Don’t be fooled by phone calls or emails that claim there is a problem delivering a product. Scammers use these methods to try to trick you out of personal information or money.
Use Tracking Information
If you know you have ordered a product, use the delivery tracking information emailed to you after making your order.
Don’t Click Links or Download Attachments
Don’t click on any links or download any attachments in an unsolicited email that says ‘Your product can’t be delivered’ unless you provide sensitive information such as your Social Security number, or financial account or credit card numbers.
Reference Your Order Details
If you have delivery questions, refer to the online receipt or order details you received after your purchase and make contact through an official website address, phone number or live online chat.
While online shopping is easy, it’s important to use trusted sellers, be cautious about how you make your purchase, and be wary of delivery scams.
This article was originally shared via our education partner, MoneyIQ.
