5 RULES FOR SAFE ONLINE SHOPPING
- Law office ANNA IGNATENKO & Associates
- Mar 24
- 1 min read
Updated: Apr 7
Every year, more and more people prefer online shopping. It’s convenient because you can shop 24/7 from anywhere. However, there are always cyber threats on the internet, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself from fraudsters. To avoid scams while shopping online, follow these simple rules:
Don’t give in to emotions. Fraudsters often offer participation in promotions with big discounts. The sale is supposedly only available for a few hours, and you need to register for the promotion as quickly as possible. Attracted by the tempting offers, buyers make an advance payment, and then the fraudsters stop responding.
Buy products only from well-known websites. For unfamiliar ones, check reviews, payment methods, and contact details. Fraudsters create fake versions (impostors) of popular websites, and sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish them from real online stores, but it is possible. They might swap letters in the website name or slightly alter a banner.
Use a secure connection. Avoid public Wi-Fi and consider using a VPN for extra protection.
Beware of phishing. Never click on suspicious links from 'sellers' sent to you via SMS, push notifications, or email. Call the store’s customer service using official numbers to verify information about promotions.
Choose secure payment methods. Use cards linked to an online wallet, or get a separate debit card with a limit.
By following these recommendations, you will significantly reduce the risks of online shopping.