Millions of people shop online every day without any trouble, but criminals do target marketplaces, social media, and fake websites to reach buyers. A bit of caution before you pay can prevent most of it.

Research before you buy

Check reviews, verify the seller's contact details, look at their trading history, and confirm the website is legitimate before you buy — especially from a business you haven't used before.

Be wary of deals that feel too good

An unusually low price is a common warning sign. Be cautious of claims of limited stock, one-day promotions, or exclusive offers designed to rush you — take the time to compare the price with other sellers first.

Stay on the platform

Marketplaces often include protections for buyers. Be cautious if a seller asks you to move the conversation elsewhere, pay outside the platform, use bank transfer only, or skip the platform's normal buying process — these requests usually mean giving up those protections.

Take extra care with high-value purchases

Vehicles, property rentals, travel, high-value electronics, and event tickets are all worth independently verifying before you pay — check that the seller genuinely owns or has the authority to sell what they're offering.

Protect your payment details

Only enter payment information on websites you trust, and avoid following links from unexpected messages or adverts without checking them independently first.

If something goes wrong

Keep your receipts, screenshots, listings, tracking details, and any communication with the seller — they'll help if you need to raise a dispute or report it.