Avoid online rip-offs
Don't let fraudsters get away with it
Online shopping and banking is safe and secure if you follow a few simple guidelines and use your common sense.
If you’re shopping online, look for clear signs that you are buying from a reputable company:
- Do they have a real-world presence? Can you see their address and phone number?
- Is their website secure? Look for ‘https://’ and the padlock that should be present on the page you are using when you are giving any payment details (credit card), or personal information
- Do they have clear privacy and returns policies?
- If you’re not convinced, search for the company on the internet and check their reputation. Call them. Trust your common sense and if necessary buy elsewhere.
If you’re using an online auction site, such as eBay, a few simple steps can make things safer:
- Before you start, understand the auction process, the site rules and the auction company’s own safety advice.
- Get to know the buyer or seller. Ask questions. Check their feedback.
- Learn to pick good sellers. Their items have clear descriptions and they will answer your questions.
- Don’t give away your password or personal details.
When it comes to handing over your money, choose a safe way to pay such as PayPal or a credit/debit card.
Conmen are very good at persuading you to do what they want. Learn to spot the telltale signs of social engineering:
- They will promise huge rewards: lottery wins, lost inheritances etc.
- A false sense of urgency.
- Odd, superfluous details.
- Requests for upfront payments or private information.
Keep your guard up and use your common sense. It’s your money so if you get a bad vibe, walk away. Don’t be rushed into anything. Talk to someone you trust before making any big decisions. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Action Fraud is the new place to report fraud
- Action Fraud is the UK’s national fraud reporting centre.
- If you’ve been scammed, ripped off or conned, there is something you can do about it. Speak to Action Fraud.
- If online shopping fraud has cost you money, call them now.
- If you’ve been a victim of identity theft, please get in touch.
- It is possible to beat fraud if we talk.
- Early recognition of fraud can be vital, so no matter whether you think you’ve been a victim of fraud or you just want to know how to protect yourself, this is the place to start.
- Action Fraud is a central point of contact to call and get help if you’ve been a victim of fraud.
