👉 SafeSiteCheck – Free Scam Website Checker
1. Start with well-known platforms when possible
The safest way to shop online is to use well-known platforms and official brand websites. Marketplaces and big retailers have buyer protection, refund policies and reputation to protect.
2. Check the website address carefully
Always look at the full URL before entering any payment details:
- Is the domain spelled correctly (no “amaz0n” instead of “amazon”)?
- Does it use HTTPS with a padlock icon?
- Is it a normal domain name or just an IP address?
3. Look for clear company and contact information
A legit online store usually shows:
- Company name and registration details (where applicable).
- Physical address you can verify on a map.
- Multiple ways to contact them – email, phone, chat, social media.
4. Search for reviews outside the website
Never rely only on the store’s own testimonials. Search for:
- “storename + reviews”
- “storename + scam”
Be extra careful if you find no external reviews at all or many negative reports about non-delivery.
5. Be sceptical about extreme discounts
If a store offers products for a fraction of the normal price, especially branded items, ask yourself why. Scammers often use huge discounts to lure people into paying quickly.
6. Use safe payment methods
Payment method matters for your protection:
- Prefer credit cards and known payment providers with chargeback options.
- Avoid direct bank transfers to unknown companies.
- Be very careful with crypto payments for regular shopping.
7. Check the return, refund and privacy policies
Before you buy, quickly read the key policies:
- Can you return products? Under what conditions?
- How long do refunds take?
- How is your personal data stored and used?
8. Protect your accounts and devices
Even safe websites can’t protect you if someone else has access to your devices or passwords:
- Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager.
- Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your main accounts.
- Keep your browser and operating system updated.
9. Trust your instincts
If something feels off – maybe the language, the design, the offer – don’t ignore it. Your intuition is based on patterns you’ve seen before, even if you can’t explain them.
10. If you’re not sure, don’t rush
Scammers want you to act fast. Slow down:
- Leave the site and come back later.
- Ask a friend or search for more information.
- Use tools like our free scam website checker as a second opinion.