Scam on online shopping sites.

burgosmichael24

burgosmichael24 Level 1

December 8, 2018, 12:04 pm

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It's Christmas time again and time for people to go shopping. During this season, many online shopping sites offer crazy deals. The problem is, many online sellers on those sites are scammers. They will accept your payment but they will give you a different product or worse they will not give you your product. Do you think how can we avoid those online scammers?

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Steve5

Steve5

One way to avoid such scams is to do your research. It's important to get to know shopping sites before making transactions. After all, it's your money's worth that you're taking care of. Especially, if you're going to purchase lots of expensive items.

8 years ago

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stbrians

stbrians

I agree with you. When you do the research you often get to judge between genuine and fake sellers. In the world of today, you cannot trust anybody

8 years ago

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Jelineex

Jelineex

You are correct. It is always good to do check and know the detailed information of the seller. To avoid conflicts and broke pocket in later time. Mostly, of this sellers is difficult to locate after a crime is committed. It is good to take safety measure especially on online shopping.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

On Facebook this is what I do. I usually stalk a site for at least 3 months before I buy anything from them. I also take note on their transaction proofs and their customer ratings. It's better to be safe than scammed.

8 years ago

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Enyi

Enyi

It always good to read non paid reviews written about the site by real buyers that way one is sure of the marketplace reputation. Better still stick with shipping sites that alot of people are buying from. They can't be all wrong.

8 years ago

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stbrians

stbrians

I do not like buying from sales. Not all of them, are genuine as you said. Some are fake and cheats

8 years ago

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esteban123

esteban123

I believe that if there are some legit online shopping sites, for sure there will be some scam sites out there that would really make a lot of good deals just to lured us. It is really a must and our responsibility to take very seriously those online sites that we would be dealing to avid from being scammed because as they say prevention is better than cure.

8 years ago

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cjctm11

cjctm11

I agree, they might create some of great deals than the others that they compete so they have an advantage of getting those customers. Even those loyal customers would be checking for great deals that they might save some but yet we still need to be sure about the site before trusting one.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

Opt for Cash on Delivery payments. If it's not available, always check for reviews. If there aren't any reviews then you need to make sure the seller gives out his bank details instead of other payment methods. That way you have proof that a transaction was made and you can at least complain to the authorities.

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

"... Cash on Delivery payments... "

This is actually the best way to avoid getting scammed. If the seller is legitimate, let him or her deliver the goods and get paid on receiving of the products.

Although some people fail to show up to pick up the products they requested which is very bad for business of cash on delivery.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

Customers also need to make sure that the delivered item is the right item before they pay for it. Many times it happened that the item isn't even in the box. There's even one time this old man bought a mobile phone online, when he got the item he checked the box first before paying for it. It was a great decision on his part because when he opened it, there's only cough syrup inside the phone box.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

That’s a good point. Cash on delivery is something that some companies offer where I live, and I need to take advantage of that more when it’s possible. Some companies though, even big ones, don’t actually allow COD as a payment method.

8 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

Yes, that's the best option. In any way you look at it, Cash on Delivery is always a good option. I'm just goas that the major online shopping sites in our country have a COD option.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

Lately I only order from shops with a CoD payment option. Online shop is like a life saver for me this time of month since I can't really leave the house as much as I wish. I've pretty much done my Christmas shopping online now because it's more convenient for me. Hopefully, my items arrive soon.

8 years ago

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Alania

Alania

Yeah, Christmas can be a season of gifts and sales, but also a lot of scams. They never rest, especially on Holidays. For example, as an online investor, I know that some online platforms and projects are known to do scams and close, right after receiving the money that each investor gives them. Gotta be careful. Personally I was scammed by an online shopping site prior to Christmas last year.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

No rest for the scammers. Also Christmas time I think would be the best time for them to get more victims. Even using platforms like Lazada or Shopee, I still check for ratings and CoD payment options. And I prefer ratings with photo proofs, that way I get to see the actual product.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

Indeed. Some of the time gift packaging companies scam. Or say delivery companies. And some of the time the site where you are sending this gift from. That may also scam and may only the people who get the gifts know about that. It's lot different for each one of them in such context.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

Here it's the couriers who are not so trustworthy with their deliveries. They've been known to steal from huge boxes, and they're also known for replacing products with trash. I think even shop owners get scammed by couriers. Not everyone is safe when it comes to scamming.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

I agree. Scam done on the courier level is a bit harder to manage. And people should watch out for what they want to protect while shopping online. I think lot of people need to work on their trust score and get those business down. Online many such apps rate such business.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

I had an awful experience with a courier. Mind you, this is a well known company! I ordered art supplies online, it was slightly cheaper but I still had to pay for shipping fees. The courier service kept sending me texts that they'll be arriving on that day. They didn't. The next day the same thing happened. They didn't. On the third day, the same thing and still nothing. They kept telling me they're on their way and I waited for nothing. Next thing I know the courier told the seller that I returned the items. I had to talk to the seller personally to clear my name!

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

Yes during the festival days the performance of the courier companies definitely goes down. And people definitely struggle a lot. And if you are planning for ordering, this is not the right time. I am going to shop after christmas now when the prices may also be low due to stock sell up. And also the courier system gets normal.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

I think it would probably take until after New Year's for the courier service to be normal. I had no choice but to order the gifts online this year. I've been tracking them and noticed how they seem to just be going around in circles. Hopefully they make it here before Christmas.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

Indeed. Once the new year first week is over. You can see that from there onwards, you can easily go back to normal ordering. I think this is world wide problem with holidays and new year. I hope that in near future if this becomes automated, we can change this.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

I agree with you. They need to find a solution for this in the future. Everything else is taking off why are courier services still getting stuck during the holidays. Maybe hire extra manpower during the peak seasons? I think that could help a bit.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

I honestly feel like Christmas time is prime time for scammers. They all seem to be out working overtime trying to rip people off at a time of the year that’s meant to be about goodness and kindness and reflection. It’s very sad that some people feel the need to rip other people off.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

I think tax season is also scam time for the people. They find the new people to scam during the tax time. And based on the peoples approach, it can get pretty bad. I would say that having proper guidance system it can cover and help others during the shopping times.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

That's true, around tax time when people are getting large sums of money back they're usually wanting to spend some of that money - and online shopping is quite a popular way to spend cash these days. It's so frustrating though that these scammers prey on innocent people.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

Yes and a lot of scam phone calls come in this time. I try to avoid answering to those scam calls. I think online shopping during that time can be a bit open to scam too. I have seen the price scams that happen in that case.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

I think there are many such online shops where the issues of scam may happen. And you have to report to the payment processor to secure your payouts. And in such case you can get the money back. But most likely it can be harder. I have seen many people get scammed on such sites. And honestly nothing new can be done on that for sure.

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

One of the best ways to prevent getting scammed from purchasing products and services from online stores would be to buy from popular and trusted online stores like Amazon.

I have never heard that anyone got scammed from Amazon site.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

Yes amazon can be good option too. But they do price scam as well. For example product is priced at 300. They think they are giving discount and price the product at 270. And then charge you 50$ for shipping.So you are paying 50$ additional for the shipping. So in some cases if amazon sends that product from your nearby shop. You have lost 50$ in shopping as well.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

Yes, it happens. There are times when your money is basically gone. That's why sites with money back guarantee are much better. Your money isn't released to the seller until you confirm your successful delivery.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

Indeed sites offering refund and the product returns are better. And they give more assurance for the product returns ensures the safety for the consumers. So the odds of getting the online shopping should be properly planned. In that context I prefer to buy from sites that minimizes my risk.

8 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

It is really important to shop on the most trusted and reliable site. I am just thankful that in our country, CASH ON DELIVERY is very popular.

8 years ago

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overcast

overcast

I too prefer the cash on delivery. And we have amazon and ebay here. Which makes shopping online lot easier. Though there are not easy ways to do that. But some of the time the shopping takes time. I guess on the context of the other payment options and refund I find that not so bad.

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

One thing that is very common with online business is the issue of scam. It's very rampant these days, so it's very important to keep out a very watchful eyes when dealing with online business where you buy products and services.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

I agree with you. So many users are easily deceived with graphics and false promises. The simple saying is very helpful. If it's too good to be true, then it probably is. Better to not waste our time with such things.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

I try to ensure I only shop from sites I’m already aware of. If I do see something I like from a new store I try and read up online about their performance. Online reviews can be helpful in determining whether something is a scam or not.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

Me too. I usually to stick what's tried and tested. After all, it's your money going down the drain if you're scammed. So I'd rather spend money on legitimate shopping sites.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

A new store can be a problem specially ones that have no reviews. It gets upsetting when it's only that certain store that sells the item you need or want. I usually just try and move on from my needing/wanting and just look for another option. I'm not one to take a risk specially if it involves purchases.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

Yes I'm not a risk taker either, especially when it comes to money. I'm not wealthy enough to have money that I can afford to go straight down the drain in the event of a scam. Better to go with what you know, or even purchase in store rather than risking it.

8 years ago

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knnon

knnon

Personally even if I did have the luxury of extra cash I'd still be cautious. Getting scammed hurts not only your wallet but your pride and heart as well. But likewise, I'd rather buy my items at a store even if it means I'll have to leave my house and go through traffic.

8 years ago

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Alymae

Alymae

You have to do your research first. Read the reviews and see if they are well-known. Ask your friends too if they ordered from the site or what they know. Chances are they have ordered from it or heard from a friend about it. Also, contact them. If they don't answer your queries, chances are its a scam. It is better if it is COD/ cash-on-delivery too.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

You covered a lot with what you said. Reviews are absolutely important when it comes to ordering online. I only settle for those with 5-star ratings. It's much safer to transact with few to no negative reviews.

8 years ago

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burgosmichael24

burgosmichael24

You are right. It's always better to check than be sorry. I don't want to be disappointed in my order so I only make transactions with high rating sellers and have good reviews. I always check the review section and I study their reasons of giving low ratings if there are any.

8 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

You are really right. There are ways to check if it's scam or not. All you have to do is exert effort. Also, before purchasing, read their terms and conditions for you to be ready if problems arise.

8 years ago

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mhingnhormz

mhingnhormz

Scam on online shoping site: Thats true many scammers now present in online shops, I can suggest that you should find the one which is the payment method is cash on delivey, it is the safest way to avoid scammers and if they don't offer that kind of payment then i think the one who use his/her personal account in terms of payment because you can check it in bank if you encountered some trouble and do complaints

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

That's a good suggestion. Cash on delivery is very in demand nowadays. People would love to pay for the products once they receive it. That way, they can monitor its progress before putting out their money.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

It's best to buy from popular sites because the risk of getting scammed is lesser than buying from sites which are not well known.

8 years ago

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Enyi

Enyi

I know we might not just be careful with scam online but sometimes it good to settle in and test very well where we are buying from to ascertain that we don't fall victim of people collecting our money and never sending us our products or totally scamming us of our money.

8 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

Well, I only shop on online sites that has a "Cash On Delivery" service. Thankfully, here in our country, it's very common for major shopping sites to have a COD.

8 years ago

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Jeane

Jeane

Do you think how can we avoid those online scammers?

When the deal is too good there is probably a scammer on other side. The best way to avoid being scammed is by buying what you need in a local store.

It is better to be safe than sorry. If what you want to buy can found in a local store, get it there. It might cost a little more but at least you are sure you won't be losing any of your money.

8 years ago

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JBeleren

JBeleren

I only shop on trusted sites and I make sure that the product has been reviewed by other people and their experiences have been positive not only with the product but also with the seller. I also chat with the seller first and check if they are responsive. Scams are everywhere, be careful when shopping online.

8 years ago

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Franzel2oo

Franzel2oo

The only sure way to avoid scams is to buy from your trusted markets and companies. Ask them questions as to how you can tell their actual websites apart from clones. You should also beware of deals that are too good to be true.

You can as well avoid shopping online altogether. It is the hard way, but at least, you are sure you will be spending your money and getting what you paid for.

8 years ago

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Em14

Em14

Yes, Christmas season is not only the time of gift giving its also the time of the scammers, snatching, pickpockets and kidnapping. Criminals choose this season because people get their extra money and Christmas benefits from their employer. Online shopping is one of the fast transactions of a scammer. They will post online a very affordable product that will get your attention but after paying for that item your order will never arrive but they will get your money. To avoid being scammed you need to read some reviews about the seller and looked for proof of transactions before placing your order.

8 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

Yes, online shopping! That's a really terrible experience when you get scammed online. That's why it's better to opt a Cash on Delivery option for online shopping which is very common here in our country.

8 years ago

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jaymish2

jaymish2

I guess this is one of the biggest worries of shopping online. I think that if you are shopping online make sure that you do it from a site that you know and that has a good reputation. There was a Amazon scandal this week where they delivered goods without wrappers. Some of those goods were presents asked for from santa. Loads of kids now don't believe in santa. I would also advise you with the Christmas rush to shop earlier so that you don't get scammed or caught in the mess.

8 years ago

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gutzman

gutzman

Buying on legit, well-known and tested online shopping websites will ensure you to avoid these kinds of scams. I think eBay, Amazon, Lazada and Shopee are just some of the well respected sites because of the good service they are giving to the customers. They also receive good feedback so it is better to buy stuffs on these sites rather than taking risk shopping online with unknown sites.

8 years ago

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Corzhens

Corzhens

When I first shopped in an online store, I was already aware of the caveat because my freelancer friends have warned me about it. So far I am doing good with my online shopping because I only buy from reputable online stores that have established names. And although I also buy from small sites but I would first check the track record if there are buyers before me otherwise it can be risky.

8 years ago

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foxprojects

foxprojects

It's a good idea only to shop at reputable sites that have been around for quite a while. If you want to buy something from a smaller store or startup e-commerce site, do a bit of research about them to see if they have any feedback or reviews from customers. If you're buying something from a site you don't know, try to make your first purchase something small and insignificant.
That way, even if they end up having bad quality merchandise or being a total scam, at least you didn't lose much.

8 years ago

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Tehilah27

Tehilah27

Avoid new/up and coming stores and use established sites with a proven track record. I do most of my shopping offline and only resort to online shopping when the product i want is difficult to find. I use sites like aliepress and a host of other sites that are well established. I've never paid and not had my product delivered but i have sometimes been unsatisfied and i usually get a partial or full refund depending on the discrepancy between what was advertised and what i received.

8 years ago

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MelanthaKrasos

MelanthaKrasos

Christmas is really a crazy month if we are going to talk about online shopping. I've worked in one of the most well known online retail company and aside from scams there are legit issue happening during Christmas season. This has something to do with mixed-ups, wrong item sent, broken or damaged merchandise and a lot more. This happens because of increase sales and workers being unable to keep up with work accordingly. Delayed shipments or lost goods because there are so many shipments being carried not just by one online site but of all retail site.

8 years ago

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kaka135

kaka135

First of all, I would try to purchase things from the online sites that are trusted or I am familiar with. Some online sites have the policy to protect the customers, if we are scammed, they might penalty the merchants. So, this is one of the ways we can avoid being scammed. But there are times when we are tempted to buy things from those sites which are relatively cheaper but we might not be familiar with, I'd then check the reviews more thoroughly, though reviews can be fake as well. I guess if I choose to purchase goods at a cheaper rate, I'd have to take a certain level of risk. I usually try to purchase a small amount of products from the shop I am not familiar with, if I think the customer service and products are good, then only I'd consider purchasing more products from them. Before purchasing, checking out the customer service might be helpful as well. From how they respond to us, we might be able to tell whether they are serious in the business and care about the customers.

8 years ago

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