Avoiding Online Shopping Scams

Shopping online has never been easier. The choices are endless. The convenience is to be applauded. But as with everything, where there is opportunity to do good, there’s also the chance for fraudulent activity. This is not to turn anyone off to online shopping. By being aware you can easily avoid risky situations. Here are some tips to be a smart online shopper:

1. Who can you trust? When you are tempted to take up an offer, check the company’s credentials. Is it well established? Have they been around for a couple of months only? Where is the main office located? Check whether the company is licensed or registered (for more information, contact your local consumer protection agency). Try to find out about the company’s past, whether there have been any complaints against the company etc. Remember that reviews may not be fully factual so take a balanced view.

You need to know whom to contact in case of a problem especially if the company is located in another country. Most of all, you will get an idea whether the company is legitimate. If you have any doubts, best to leave it alone.

2. Nature of the offer- Some of us find it difficult to look past what seems like a good bargain. Forget the catchy sales pitch; you need to really know what you are getting. Are the specifications given? Is there a descriptive picture of what you will end up with? Don’t overlook any information given because it is your responsibility to understand what’s stated. Check for details such as price, delivery date, product code, return and cancellation policy and warranty period. Take printouts and note down date of accession. Documentation is important or you’ll be lost later.

3. Think twice before giving personal information – This includes bank account numbers and credit card numbers. If you can’t find out enough information about a company don’t go ahead with the payment. Con artists are adept at exploiting unwary shoppers so even providing half of the required details can get you in trouble. Be careful about passwords as these can be manipulated in ways you won’t imagine.

4. Is the website too flashy? Believe it or not, this is one telltale sign of an illegitimate company that is trying to catch shoppers. They tend to go overboard with the benefits and the ‘free’ additional offers. Don’t fall for these. Any self respecting company will know how to promote their products effectively without being loud.

5. Decide at leisure- Don’t be bullied by websites claiming that you have only ’24 hours to grab a fantastic discount’. These are ruses to pressurize potential customers. The more you weigh the pros and cons, the less chances of being baited.

6. Don’t tolerate unsolicited e-mail. It’s a violation of the internet and should be reported.

7. Don’t download any files from unfamiliar websites- They may contain viruses or spy ware that can hack your computer and get personal information without your knowledge.

8. Payment - You must make sure that you pay through a secure webpage. The URL will have https at the beginning and there will be a locked padlock at the bottom of the screen. Use recognized methods such as PBay or Paypal or your credit card to pay. Don't rely on money transfers. Keep a printed copy of your transaction details


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