There is every reason to shop online. The snips and bargains are there. The shopping is safe and secure. The selection is also mind-boggling. Shipping is fast. With the right e-retailers, even refunds are easy. Shopping has never been more convenient or easier for customers.
But what about the scammers who lay in wait? No doubt, they exist. This is the reason you need to consider the tips discussed below before purchasing a product from an online website.
#1: Make sure you use familiar Websites
Only shop from a trusted site. Most times, search results can be rigged to mislead, mainly when you go through the first few link pages. If you are familiar with the site, chances are it is less likely a rip-off.
We all know that sites like Amazon.com carry every single thing under the sun, and the same thing applies to every other major online retail store. Beware of sites misspellings, especially those using different domains, for example, .net in place of .com. Those are some of the most common tricks used to lead online shoppers astray. Although sales on these websites may look enticing and convincing, that is the idea behind tricking you into providing your purchase details.
#2: Don’t Overshare
No genuine online shopping store will ask for your date of birth or Social Security number to carry out business. But, in case scammers get essential details like your credit card information, they can use it in doing a whole lot of damage. The more crooks know, the easier it gets to scam and steal your identity. To be on a safer side, always give little personal data information to be on the safe side.
#3: Avoid Public Depots
What about making use of your PC to shop while you are out? It is one thing to swipe your credit card at checkout, but when it is mandatory for you to fill in your credit card number and other credit card information on an online site while in a public café, you are giving scammers ample opportunities to do away with your money. Thus, it is advisable you always use sites you are sure already have your credit card information stored, so you do not have to bring it out every time you want to make a purchase
#4: Think Mobile
There is no need to be more nervous shopping via a mobile device than shopping online. Just make use of applications provided by trusted retailers, like Target, LeDab, and Amazon. Use the applications to look for what you want and then purchase directly from the app, without having to visit the website or the store.
