Online Shopping Scam Checklist
A short checklist can create useful distance between an exciting product page and a payment decision. Work through the store identity, offer, checkout, and after-sale details in order. The goal is not to make a legal judgment; it is to notice gaps before they become expensive surprises.
Store identity checklist
Confirm the domain spelling, business name, support details, and policy pages. Search the business independently and compare the information across sources rather than trusting one badge or testimonial.
Offer checklist
Compare the price with established sellers, reverse-check suspicious product images when useful, and read the full description. Extreme discounts and copied photos can be warning signs when paired with other inconsistencies.
Checkout checklist
Review the final total, currency, delivery cost, and payment route before proceeding. Avoid methods that provide little recourse, and stop if the checkout unexpectedly redirects or asks for unrelated information.
After-sale checklist
Understand return windows, refund conditions, delivery estimates, and how support can be reached. Keep records of the listing and transaction if you choose to buy from a verified seller.
Frequently asked questions
How many warning signs mean a store is fake?
There is no universal number. Consider the seriousness and combination of signs, then verify important facts independently.
Should I trust a very low price?
Compare it with normal market prices. A large unexplained difference deserves extra verification before payment.
Is this checklist legal or financial advice?
No. It is general educational information and does not replace professional advice or an official investigation.