We all shop online these days, I mean I do almost daily! So let’s chat about safety while online shopping. These are 3 security warning signs for shopping online.

3 Security Warning Signs For Shopping Online

Shopping online is not only one of the more convenient means of sourcing what you need, it can also be one of the least expensive. With many online vouchers, price comparison websites, and delivery options, it’s much easier to find something you want at your own pace and wait for a good deal.

That being said, online shopping isn’t always smooth sailing. With so many billions at stake, it’s no wonder fraudsters have taken it upon themselves to try and get a slice of the pie. They do this by imitating more conventional storefronts, giving an aura of legitimacy, or even using auction and in-person selling sites to consider scams.

For example, a Facebook marketplace scam often involves paying for an item through bank transfer and then committing to a chargeback after the fact. This can leave you in distress as you try to claim the funds you’re owed and deal with the sometimes unreliable support staff of the platform you used. It’s best to avoid annoying outcomes like this entirety, so let’s discuss three security warning signs for shopping online instead:

Unsecured Website (HTTP,  Not HTTPS)

Ever found yourself casually browsing online, only to stumble upon a site that seemed a bit, well, insecure? Perhaps it took too long to connect, or your browser warned against using it because it failed to detect a security certificate (often known as an SSL certificate). Yep, that’s your first clue right there. 

While HTTPS is like the digital equivalent of a beefed-up security detail, HTTP is less secure and could potentially allow others to see your traffic, especially if you’re using unsecured networks. While some browsers will automatically switch to the HTTPS protocol, it’s best not to risk it. After all, if that modern standard hasn’t been adopted, what else could be missing?

Suspiciously Low Prices

It can feel like we’ve scored an amazing deal if we find a price aggregate website suggesting a deep cut on a particular product we need, but if those prices seem to be a little too good, consider its source. It might be that you’re hit with optional fees at the checkout, or perhaps you’re buying secondhand without being told so. Always stick to official retailers if you can, and use services like online reviews or Trustpilot to gauge reliability. You can simply type search strings like “Is Temu safe?” to understand if you should trust a given website.

No Payment Integrations

PayPal, credit or debit cards, and credit check options like Klarna, are all good signs that proper payment integrations have been applied to the website and passed the eligibility checks of that provider. If the credit card option is the only one, or they want you to purchase crypto to purchase in its stead, well, that can be a red flag. Always use protected payment providers if you can, to put distance between your card information and a new website. That way, you don’t have to risk too much on a purchase and have mechanisms to get your money back when needed.

With this advice, you’re sure to manage those warning signs and shop safely online. Let me know if you found this post helpful and be sure to subscribe before you go so you never miss out on new posts! 

Much love, Jess XO