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Like most females out there, I love to go shopping. In my opinion, nothing beats walking around the mall, looking at window displays, trying on pieces of clothing and finding out where the latest sale is. Sometimes, we end up buying stuff we don't actually need. Aren't we all guilty of that? But, we have to admit that it is kind of therapeutic; at least, for women who love and live to shop.

While a big number of consumer goods can instantly be touched and seen, another hefty amount are also available on the internet through online shops or e-biz (electronic business) websites. As people have been more used to and evolved with the digital age, online shops also became a holy grail in the name of shopping (I made that one up. LOL).

Unfortunately, not everybody has yet mastered the art of "online shopping". People end up getting scammed and their credit card/identities stolen - all because of the lack of information. Hopefully, with this post, I can somehow keep you out of harm's way based on my experience as an avid online shopper -  because, trust me, online shopping can get quite addictive.


1. Well-known Companies/Products that have online stores

Companies like Target, Best Buy, Ikea, Victoria's Secret, Sephora, etc. are very famous because almost everybody in this world knows who they are and the products that they represent. Their domain names (www.THEIRCOMPANYNAME.com) are usually the name of the company. So, these are your safest bets.

However, there are people who we'd like to call internet trolls and these are people who have nothing better to do other than waste our time. These "trolls" often create domain names/URLs that will make you believe that they are from a legit company. Watch out for websites that may contain the word "REAL". For example:

http://realvictoriassecret.com
http://realbreastenhancers.net

OR

http://freetargetproducts.com
http://freecosmeticsurgery.com

Remember, there is no such thing as free enhancers and surgeries... only hugs. :)

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2. Do not have social media accounts

If they're from a legit company, they would have their business available in any means possible for the world to know that they exist. This is that certain connection between a customer and a business.

Online shops that do not have social media accounts might turn the red light on. Why? Because if they're going to scam you, why would they give you a chance to contact them in case you might run into some trouble with your order not arriving at all or that you've been charged an additional $100?

3. Do not have a Contact Information

This goes along with #2. I pulled this out because scammers, nowadays, are getting smarter.

What they do is create a link towards a contact page that leads you to a fill-up form that may or may not work. And if it does work, it will never get anywhere at all. You'll end up not knowing who to forward your concerns to.

Their so-called toll-free numbers won't do you any good, either.

4. Won't give you any other payment method

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Not giving you a choice is a dead ringer for scam. I mean, who does that? If you will come across online shops like these, think twice before typing in your card number or account number. They might also ask for your CSC/CVV/CVC or the three digits found at the back of your credit and debit card.

What you should do is check if they allow you to use Paypal or any other payment option. That way, you can request for a refund (at least with Paypal).

DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT provide them with the 3 digits. EVER!

5. Search reviews and feedback about a website

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If you're uncertain about the legitimacy of an online shop, Google is here to help. Don't be afraid to do your research because this is your own money that you're spending. Look for scam reports and negative feedback done by buyers just like you.

You might also want to try Scam Book, a complaint resolution platform. It is a community supported by real people that have filed complaints against business scams.


Let's say you want to shop in eBay.

1. Feedback

IMO, this is probably the most crucial and the first thing I consider when looking for legitimate sellers. Their feedback page helps you weigh in your choices whether or not to buy from the seller. The more positive comments there are, the better. A seller that has a Top-Rated Seal and/or Power Seller indication is a guarantee that you won't have your money wasted, as well.

Should there be any problems, this might be on the customer's end, but these kinds of sellers are more than happy to help you in any way they can.

For more information, check out this article.

2. Filters

For a more advance type of search, try to filter them. Found at the left side of the page after your query, these filters help you specify the Condition, Price Range and Item Location of the product you are looking for. My favorite is the 'Free Postage' option.

3. Read the product information/description

This is very helpful in terms of getting to know the item you're planning to buy or bid on. Sellers often write down all the things you need to know about the product and more for your convenience. This will also assist you should you have any questions regarding the quality and the features of said product.

And last but not the least...

4. Don't hesitate to contact the seller

It doesn't hurt to ask them certain questions that you have in mind before clicking the BUY IT NOW button. This can also prevent misunderstanding between seller and buyer.

If you've already ordered and you have further queries, ask them politely and practice the art of saying hello and thank you.

Happy shopping!!!

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