Fake shops offer products that don't even exist, or ordered goods - after payment in advance - never reach the buyer. This is extremely annoying and it doesn't have to be this way.
Police give tips for safe online shopping
You should therefore take the following into account when shopping online:
1. Be skeptical of particularly tempting bargains : A brand new smartphone is available on a popular internet sales platform at a significantly reduced price? Alarm bells should ring. A comparison of the price with the offer at large, well-known retailers shows whether the reduced price can be realistic. Because fraudsters lure their victims with low prices.
2. The seller asks for a transfer using the Paypal payment service under the “Friends and Family ” option? You should pay attention here. If you don't know the seller personally, you should always choose the “Goods and Services” option. Only then is there buyer protection.
3. The purchase can only be completed with advance payment? If there is no other payment option, it is better not to buy and look elsewhere. Because there is a risk that fraudsters are at work and never send any goods after payment. Instead, choose secure payment methods – such as by invoice.
4. Be careful when buying very expensive goods online: A car, a television or a work machine - you should be careful when buying expensive things online. Only confidential websites that are generally known and where it is certain that the company is reputable should be used. Because there are always fake shops or dubious providers on the internet. Enter the name of the online shop into a search engine, this way you can find out negative experiences from other customers and you don't have to rely on the promises of the shop operators. However, it is best to contact your local dealer when making larger purchases.
More info
More on the topic of federal and state police crime prevention: https://www.polizei-beratung.de/themen-und-tipps/fähren-im-internet/e-commerce/fake-shops/
Fake shop finder at the consumer center: https://www.verbraucherzentrale.de/fakeshopfinder-71560
Source:
Steinfurt police
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