Online shopping is convenient, but it’s also a playground for scammers. If you’ve ever seen a deal that looks too good to be true—an iPhone for $99 or luxury shoes at 90% off—pause before you click. Cybercriminals use fake bargains to lure shoppers into giving away personal information or payment details. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns that over 80% of people who encountered an online purchase scam reported losing money, underscoring how convincing fake stores and bogus offers can be. Here’s how to shop smart and stay safe.
Why Unrealistic Deals Are a Red Flag
Scammers know that everyone loves a bargain. They create websites or ads offering massive discounts to grab your attention. Once you click, you might be asked to:
- Enter credit card details on a fake checkout page.
- Provide personal information for “shipping.”
- Download a malicious app or file disguised as a coupon.
The result? Identity theft, stolen money, or malware on your device.
How to Verify a Deal Before You Buy
- Compare Prices Across Trusted Sites
If an item costs $200 everywhere else but one site lists it for $50, that’s suspicious. Check multiple reputable retailers before making a decision. - Research the Seller
Look for customer reviews, business contact details, and a physical address. If you can’t find any credible information, steer clear. - Check the Website’s Security
Make sure the site uses HTTPS (look for the padlock icon in the browser). Avoid entering payment details on unsecured pages. - Beware of Pressure Tactics
Phrases like “Only 1 left!” or “Offer ends in 10 minutes!” are often used to rush you into bad decisions.
Extra Tips for Safe Online Shopping
- Use Credit Cards or Secure Payment Services: They offer better fraud protection than debit cards.
- Avoid Clicking on Ads in Emails or Social Media: Go directly to the retailer’s official site.
- Enable Purchase Alerts: Get notified of transactions to catch fraud early.
Quick “Deal or Dud” Checklist
- Price consistent with reputable stores? ✅
- Real address, phone, and returns info? ✅
- Credit card or trusted wallet accepted? ✅
- HTTPS certificate valid and padlock present? ✅
- Reviews from independent sites (not just on‑site testimonials)? ✅
If you can’t check all the boxes, skip the checkout. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Take a few minutes to verify prices, research sellers, and check site security. Healthy skepticism isn’t just smart—it’s essential for protecting your money and your identity.
