Fake online stores
Sites that look like real shops but never deliver goods.
Warning signs
- Brand-new domain
- Prices far below market
- No real contact info
What to do
Avoid checkout. Search the domain for reviews and check the scam database.
Learn how scams work
Short, plain-English guides so you can spot common shopping scams.
Fake reviews
Templated or AI-generated reviews designed to build false trust.
Warning signs
- Identical phrasing
- Bulk posting times
- Generic 5-star praise
What to do
Cross-check on independent review sites. Read 1–3 star reviews first.
Fake tracking numbers
Scam stores send valid-looking tracking that never updates.
Warning signs
- Tracking stuck in 'label created'
- Carrier doesn't match destination
What to do
Open a dispute with your payment provider after 7–14 days.
Fake discounts
Pressure tactics like 90% off countdown timers.
Warning signs
- Urgency banners
- Original price never existed
- Bait-and-switch
What to do
Slow down. Compare prices on the original retailer's site.
Payment scams
Stores that only accept untraceable methods.
Warning signs
- Wire transfer or gift cards only
- Crypto-only checkout
- Different payee name
What to do
Use credit cards with chargeback protection.
AI-generated scam pages
Fully generated storefronts that mimic real brands.
Warning signs
- Product photos look AI-made
- Copy reads slightly off
- Cloned layouts
What to do
Verify the brand's official domain via search engine.
Social media shopping scams
Ads on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook leading to scam stores.
Warning signs
- New ad accounts
- Comments disabled
- DM-only orders
What to do
Search the seller name + 'scam' before paying.
After being scammed
What to do if you've already paid.
Warning signs
- Charge appears
- No shipment after promised window
What to do
Contact your bank for chargeback. Generate a fraud report packet. Report the URL here.