Online Shopping Scams

10 Tips to Identify and Help Protect Yourself From Online Shopping Scams

Despite a scammer’s best efforts, these simple steps can stand in their way – and preserve the security of the information you store and access online.

Keep your passwords and PINs private

1. Only shop on secure websites with good reputations
2. Do not shop using public wi-fi connections
3. Be suspicious of deals that are too good to be true
4. Avoid sellers who use pressure tactics to get you to buy
5. Be wary of social media ads that may take you to an unfamiliar shopping site
6. Use a credit card to purchase instead of debit cards, prepaid cards, or wire transfers
7. Set up account alerts and notifications Footnote 22 to monitor your accounts
8. Never give out sensitive information such as your account or social security number
9. Search for the seller and the word “scam” to vet them before sending money
10. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut, and walk away

Shopping online is convenient, fast, and easy. However, knowing how to shop safely is important so you don’t fall victim to online shopping scams. By putting these tips into practice, you can feel more confident that you will recognize the signs of a scam.

Remember, it’s better to be cautious and risk losing a deal rather than lose your money. If you’ve already sent money, report the scam right away to your financial institution, and the Federal Trade Commission.

1. Federal Trade Commission: February 22, 2022. New Data Shows FTC Received 2.8 million Fraud Reports from Consumers in 2021Opens Dialog.
2. Sign-up may be required. Availability may be affected by your mobile carrier’s coverage area. Your mobile carrier’s message and data rates may apply.