11 Warning Signs of a Fraudulent Shopping Site Ready to Rob You
The link appears unsafe.
Recognizing possible warning signs in a web address can help you stay secure, so Eaton advises checking if the URL differs from the official one provided by the business. As an illustration, Costco The official website for Costco is Costco.com, and any deviation from this official web address likely indicates an online store scam.
Fraudsters attempt to replicate (or imitate) the genuine website's actual URL as accurately as possible, so stay vigilant. "They might make minor adjustments," Eaton explains, such as replacing letters with similar-looking numerals—for instance, using '1' instead of 'l'. This way, they aim to deceive customers into believing they're visiting the authentic site. Upon briefly checking the address bar, everything appears normal.
Firms often safeguard themselves by acquiring related domain names that reroute mistyped web addresses back to their genuine website. However, if you find yourself on a lengthy URL such as "OfficialNikeDiscountedShoes[dot]com," it’s important to recognize that this does not originate from Nike itself.
The URL lacks the "s" in "https."
Eaton emphasizes that you should consistently verify if the URL begins with "https" instead of just "http." Do not overlook this—this small action can prevent the hassle of dealing with identity theft versus maintaining your security. The minor addition of the letter “s” plays a crucial role in steering clear of fraudulent online stores.
Nearly every prominent website — including all leading retailers — now employs HTTPS, as the 's' indicates enhanced security," Eaton explains. "However, HTTP sites tend to be more affordable, which is why some opt for them. scammers Will attempt to take shortcuts by opting for an HTTP website.
You browsed through to locate the website.
Sites that are buried past the first few pages of a web search can be a red flag for online store scams, Eaton says. If you scrolled and scrolled to land on the site, take extra precaution.
"These fraudulent websites typically do not show up on the initial pages of Google searches; however, if you continuously alter your search terms and sift through enough results, you might stumble upon them somewhere around page 11, 12, or even 13," according to Eaton.
We all enjoy getting a good deal, and there are numerous websites where you can find sales and discounts. However, the issue lies in the fact that many of these offers turn out to be scams and aren’t actually worth it. Failing to do your homework could result in you either getting nothing delivered or receiving a fake product. and losing your money .
You spotted an advertisement on social media.
If you come across an attractive deal on a message board or comments section, Eaton advises being particularly wary. Such "promotion" comes at virtually no cost, requiring only a few seconds to share the comment.
These fraudsters won't be purchasing advertisements, as they lack the funds, but they can surely finance it. social media campaigns Eaton mentions "low-level SEO manipulation." Even though reputable firms may initiate text and email campaigns or promote their products on social media, proceed with caution if the contact is unsolicited or if there are additional warning signs.
Simply because you encountered an advertisement on social media does not necessarily indicate that it is part of an online shopping scam; however, be sure to scrutinize the website carefully and verify its legitimacy prior to making any purchases.
The language feels off
Eaton believes it's always prudent to follow your instincts. If you're reading a text or email And if the language seems incorrect—perhaps it appears unprofessional or has poor grammar—you might want to examine other indicators suggesting that the website being advertised through this communication could be fraudulent.
“An enormous proportion of internet scams originate in nations where English is not the primary language, which means their grammatical choices can often reveal their true intentions,” Eaton explains. “For example, it’s extremely improbable that a global giant such as Nike, with a multibillion-dollar valuation, would approve an advertisement stating 'Buy Cheap Shoe Now!' at the top.”
There is an urgent feeling.
“If you land on a website with a clock ticking down the seconds until the offer goes away, it might be an online scam “Store,” Eaton states. Although certain promotions do end—especially those linked to specific holidays—the texts and emails informing us it’s our “final opportunity” frequently create an artificial sense of urgency.
Marketers refer to this as FOMO—the Fear of Missing Out—which is often behind numerous fraudulent schemes," Eaton explains, noting that scammers prefer not giving you ample opportunity to carefully consider your decision. "Scammers face a ticking clock since their websites won't stay up indefinitely and authorities will catch up with them," he adds. "Giving yourself extra time to weigh the situation decreases the likelihood of being duped.
Too-good-to-be true savings
Eaton indicates that fraudsters frequently blend multiple warning signs from our list, which serves as an alert—however, astronomical savings are nearly always always part of the scam .
“They promise unbelievable, once-in-a-lifetime savings—because otherwise, why would you bother?—but the crazier the savings, the less likely it’s legitimate,” Eaton says.
You're likely aware that prices drastically different from what's typical are big red flags for online scams. However, when we believe we can snag two new iPads for the cost of one, it's tempting to overlook our gut feelings.
A surplus of positive feedback (or complete absence thereof).
Eaton explains that certain counterfeit online stores might lack any customer feedback at all, whereas others could be inundated with overwhelmingly positive comments. "These scammers enhance their fraudulent operations by generating additional profiles which post copious amounts of highly favorable, exaggerated testimonials," she states. "Should every review consist solely of five-star ratings, maintain an identical brevity and structure, and appear within a condensed timeframe—be cautious."
Eaton mentions that the existence of chatbots makes matters more complex since they provide cybercriminals with a straightforward method to create favorable reviews. Therefore, exercise caution. As Eaton highlights, "Public sentiment is rarely universally enthusiastic; someone, somewhere will inevitably have differing opinions." something to complain about!”
The customer service information looks questionable
Fraudsters understand that certain elements must be included to make a counterfeit retail website appear genuine, and providing a way for people to reach out is one such element. Scammers aren’t concerned with your satisfaction—returns certainly won’t be accepted—but they still have to provide an email address or phone number within the "Contact Us" portion of their site.
Suppose you're browsing for groceries online on what claims to be a Publix site. If the customer support email leads to a Hotmail account, proceed with caution. "For such a large corporation as Publix, they'd manage their emails through addresses they directly operate rather than using platforms run by companies like Google, Yahoo, or others."
The firm provides multiple payment options.
Numerous genuine websites provide various payment methods. You have the option to utilize a credit card or opt for digital wallets such as PayPal And with Apple Pay. However, if a payment plan option appears, proceed with caution. Scammers do not differentiate between one payment or multiple payments; they aim to lure you into sharing your credit card details.
Eaton states, "They simply desire your data, and they crave it urgently." They will go to great lengths to make sure you press 'purchase' immediately. After clicking ‘buy now,’ your details might be stolen, or worse, you could face recurring monthly charges as long as possible without getting caught.
Additionally, be wary of con artists attempting to have you make payments using cryptocurrencies or gift cards. Eaton mentions that credit cards provide some safeguards against fraudulent activity; however, numerous alternate payment methods lack these protections: once the funds disappear, they’re irretrievable.
Website quality looks iffy
Finally, do not overlook the website itself; check for anything illogical. Notice the photo quality and cropping. Ensure the search function works smoothly without glitches, and verify that there aren’t numerous dead links scattered around.
"Reputable businesses employ skilled writers," Eaton states. "Brands like Rolex, Ralph Lauren, and Ray-Ban wouldn't clutter their websites with poorly written, clumsy, or incorrectly spelled promotional content." Should a site appear unprofessional, it's probably an imitation online store designed for fraud.
How to Shop Safely Online
Understanding how to spot counterfeit shopping websites and online store scams is just one aspect of the equation. It's equally crucial to employ savvy online shopping tactics across all platforms, including reputable ones. Consider these recommendations:
- Use a credit card. “Federal law protects credit cards from fraud, whereas debit cards do not have the same level of protection,” Eaton explains. “If you use a credit card And when you get scammed online, you usually have a chance to reclaim your funds."
- Search for the company's name using Google. It might appear straightforward, but Eaton suggests that submitting the company’s website address, domain name, or promotional offers to Google can frequently help identify any reported scams or grievances filed by past clients.
- Research the domain history. While it may not be completely fail-safe, if a website has only existed for a short time, it might warrant further investigation to determine if it could be an online store scam. "Should a site have been established 15 years ago, it likely would have undergone scrutiny," Eaton explains.
- Stick with the app. Eaton suggests that it's typically best to purchase through them. official app Of the services you frequently use, rather than going through their websites directly. "This reduces the chance of encountering fake storefronts," Eaton explains. "Just ensure you've downloaded the genuine app and not a fraudulent version, as those can be scams as well!"
About the experts
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Why trust us
Reader’s Digest She has authored numerous pieces on personal technology, equipping readers with the know-how to safeguard themselves from cyber threats and internet frauds, along with sharing top tips, tricks, and hacks for managing computers, smartphones, applications, texting, social media, and much more. In crafting this article focused on online store scams, Jaime Stathis leveraged her background as a writer who has produced many articles addressing scams and digital safety issues. Reader’s Digest To guarantee that all details are precise and provide the finest guidance to our audience, we depend on qualified specialists who possess firsthand knowledge along with practical expertise. Additionally, we consult primary sources such as technology firms, industry associations, and educational bodies. Every piece of information and statistic undergoes rigorous verification and periodic reviews to maintain their accuracy and relevance. For further insight into our process, read more here. team , our contributors and our editorial policies .
Sources:
- Federal Trade Commission : “New FTC Data Show a Big Jump in Reported Losses to Fraud to $12.5 Billion in 2024”
- Monica Eaton, CEO of Chargebacks911 ; interviewed, April 2025
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