When shopping online, carefully check and compare offers

Fake shops look like real online shops: With images of products, associated information, general terms and conditions (GTC) and a fake imprint, they can hardly be distinguished from reputable online retailers.

That's why it's important to carefully check offers when shopping online - even on so-called marketplaces of larger sales platforms. Don't make spontaneous purchases, but compare offers from several providers - even in brick-and-mortar stores.

Popular goods at particularly low prices are intended to lure people into the trap

Fraudsters lure people with particularly cheap offers or popular products, such as the latest games console, the latest smartphone or trendy designer fashion. Even goods that are in high demand are offered at the best conditions, while the competition has long since sold out and is no longer available. While it was disinfectants and protective equipment during the corona pandemic, offers have recently become more common on sales platforms, e.g. B. for cheap firewood .

In fact, neither the shops nor the products on offer exist. That's why the advertised goods are only offered against advance payment. But caution is advised here: once the payment is made, the money is gone - but the order is not delivered.

Anyone who has become a victim of fraud while shopping online, or suspects it, should definitely contact the police and file a report .

Tips for safe online shopping

  • Find out about the sales platform or seller: enter their name in a search engine or contact the consumer protection center. This way you can receive information from other customers about the shop.
  • Use secure payment methods: Prefer purchasing on account. Under no circumstances should you use payment services such as Western Union or Paysafecard.
  • Always ensure that you have a secure internet connection ( HTTPS ) when you transmit personal data to the online shop.

Further tips and advice on how to recognize fake shops and shop safely online can be found HERE .

You might also be interested in:Fake shops: rip-offs with lure offers

Source: police advice


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