How to Spot and Avoid Sneaky Online Shopping Scams

• Online Shopping
• Scam Prevention
• Cybersecurity

Discover essential tips to identify online shopping scams and learn how to shop safely without risking your money or personal details.

Why Online Shopping Scams Are a Growing Problem

Everyone loves a bargain, especially online where comparing prices, models, and features is easier than ever. Unfortunately, this convenience also attracts scammers who exploit the online shopping landscape, tricking buyers into parting with their money and personal information.

Imagine spotting a deal that seems too good to pass up, only to discover later that you've either received counterfeit goods or nothing at all. This scenario is sadly common, and it's critical to understand how these scams work so you can protect yourself.

How Do Online Shopping Scams Operate?

Online shopping scams often involve offering high-demand products at incredibly low prices. Scammers take advantage of items that are either scarce or trendy, creating urgency and enticing buyers to act quickly without proper research.

• Non-existent products: Scammers frequently list products that don’t exist, banking on your eagerness to snap up a bargain quickly.
• Counterfeit goods: Alternatively, you may receive counterfeit versions of the products, which are often poor quality and drastically cheaper than what you paid for.
• Identity theft: Some scams involve asking you to register with personal details, enabling identity theft.

According to the ACCC's Scamwatch, Australians lost over $5.2 million to online shopping scams in 2022 alone, with many incidents likely going unreported, indicating the true figure is even higher.

Practical Tips to Avoid Online Shopping Scams

• Look for HTTPS and the Lock Icon: Always ensure the website you're buying from is secure. The URL should start with "https://" and display a lock icon, indicating a secure connection.
• Check URL Spelling Carefully: Scammers frequently create deceptive websites mimicking well-known brands but subtly misspelling their URLs. Be vigilant, and ensure the spelling is correct.
• Do Thorough Research: Always check reviews or forums for customer feedback before making a purchase. Negative feedback can indicate potential issues.
• Use Secure Payment Methods: Paying by secure methods like PayPal or credit card offers buyer protection, allowing you to claim refunds more easily if the transaction goes wrong.
• Avoid Direct Deposits or Money Transfers: Be cautious if a seller insists on direct bank deposits or money transfers—these methods provide limited protection and are frequently used by scammers.
• Use Unique Passwords: Never reuse passwords from other sites. Scammers often exploit shared passwords to access your other accounts.
• Evaluate Unrealistic Discounts Carefully: Extreme discounts, such as 80% off on popular items, are common bait. If a deal seems too good to be true, it's likely a scam.

Conclusion: Think Before You Click 'Pay'

Online shopping is convenient, but always be cautious. Understanding the signs of scams and taking proactive steps to protect yourself will ensure a safer and more enjoyable online shopping experience.