How do I shop on trusted websites?

Stick to well-known retailers and brand websites. If a site is unfamiliar, search for it online along with "reviews" or "scam" before purchasing.

How do I check for https and the padlock?

Before entering payment info, verify the URL starts with "https://" and shows a padlock icon. No padlock means do not purchase.

How do I use a credit card?

Credit cards offer better fraud protection than debit cards. If there is an unauthorized charge, your credit card company can dispute and reverse it.

How do I be skeptical of extreme deals?

If the price is dramatically lower than everywhere else, it is likely a scam or counterfeit. Compare prices across multiple reputable stores.

How do I avoid clicking social media ads for unfamiliar stores?

Scam ads are common on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. If an ad leads to a site you do not recognize, research the company before buying.

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Shopping online is convenient, but it also creates opportunities for scammers. Fake websites, stolen credit card information, and counterfeit products are real risks. By following some straightforward practices, you can shop online with confidence.

Use trusted websites. Stick to well-known retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and the official websites of brands you trust. If you find a deal on a website you have never heard of, be cautious. Search for the company name plus "reviews" or "scam" to see what other people say.

Check for HTTPS. Before entering any payment information, look at the website address in your browser. It should start with "https://" (not "http://") — the "s" means the connection is encrypted. You should also see a padlock icon in the address bar.

Use a credit card, not a debit card. Credit cards offer better fraud protection. If someone makes an unauthorized charge, your credit card company can reverse it while investigating. With a debit card, the money is taken directly from your bank account and can be harder to recover.

Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. A brand-new phone for $99? A designer handbag for $30? These are almost certainly scams or counterfeits. If the price is drastically below what everyone else charges, walk away.

Watch out for fake review sites and social media ads. Scammers create convincing product ads on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok that lead to fake shopping websites. These sites take your payment but never deliver the product. Check the website's contact information, return policy, and physical address before buying.

Keep records. Save confirmation emails, order numbers, and receipts. Take screenshots of the product listing and price. These are essential if you need to dispute a charge or return an item.

Monitor your statements. After shopping online, check your credit card or bank statement within a few days to make sure only the correct charges appear. Report any unauthorized charges to your bank immediately.