10 Warning Signs Your Online Vendor Might Be Scamming You

Shopping online offers convenience, but it also comes with risks. Not every vendor is as reliable as they seem, and spotting a scam before it happens can save you money and stress. Fraudulent sellers prey on unsuspecting shoppers, using tricks to appear legitimate while taking advantage of your trust. In this post, we’ll break down the red flags to watch for, so you can protect yourself and shop with confidence.

Unrealistically Low Prices

One of the easiest ways scammers reel in victims is by offering prices that seem too good to pass up. While everyone loves a bargain, there’s a fine line between a great deal and a straight-up scam. If you’ve ever come across something being sold at a fraction of its normal cost and thought, “How is this even possible?”, then it’s time to proceed with caution.

Why Too Good to Be True is a Red Flag

When you see a price that’s outrageously low compared to other vendors, take a step back. These deals are often bait designed to lure in unsuspecting customers. Scammers know people can’t resist the promise of saving big, and they exploit that eagerness.

Here’s the truth: legitimate businesses have overhead costs like production, shipping, and marketing. Selling products at absurdly low prices isn’t sustainable. If a premium item like a designer bag or high-end gadget is listed for 80% off—outside of a legitimate clearance event—it’s likely fake, stolen, or doesn’t exist at all. Scammers know how to dress up their online stores to look convincing, but these drastic discounts are often their biggest giveaway.

Let’s think about it this way: if something costs significantly less than it does elsewhere, what’s the catch? Chances are, you’re either buying a poor-quality imitation or handing over your money for something that’ll never arrive.

Lack of Verified Discounts

Legitimate vendors usually have clear, traceable reasons for their discounts, like seasonal sales, clearance events, or limited-time promotions. These are typically advertised alongside clear terms, like specific dates or discount codes. Scammers, on the other hand, operate differently.

They often won’t have any explanation for their slashed prices. Why? Because their focus isn’t on actually providing you with a deal—it’s on getting your money before you realize something’s off.

Take a moment to think about this: Have you ever seen a random website offering deals so ridiculous that it made you hesitate, even for a second? That brief hesitation is your gut telling you to investigate further. Real vendors will back up their discounts with trust signals like customer reviews, verified sales data, or even partnerships with well-known platforms. Scammers skip these details, relying instead on impulse buys from shoppers who don’t take the time to dig deeper.

In short, legitimate vendors earn your trust through transparency. Scammers, on the other hand, hide the truth behind flashy prices that don’t add up.

Poor Website Quality

A website is often the first impression you’ll get about an online vendor. If that first impression screams “untrustworthy,” it might be a sign to walk away. Fraudulent vendors often cut corners with their websites, focusing more on fooling you than creating a reliable shopping experience. Paying attention to details—both big and small—can help you spot a scam before it’s too late.

Unprofessional Design and Errors

Have you ever visited a website that looked like it was stuck in a time capsule from the early 2000s? Clunky layouts, outdated fonts, or color schemes that make your eyes hurt are major red flags. Reputable businesses know that design equals credibility. A poorly designed website can suggest the seller isn’t investing in their online presence—and their lack of effort could extend to their honesty as well.

Beyond the design, look for typos, grammatical errors, broken links, or missing images. These are small details that might not matter too much to someone cutting corners, but they speak volumes about professionalism. Legitimate vendors take time to ensure their website reflects their brand’s quality. Scammers, on the other hand, often copy-paste content or rush to throw together a site that looks “good enough.”

Ask yourself: If they can’t put effort into their website, can you trust them to deliver quality products or services? Probably not. Be especially wary if the site feels poorly organized or hard to navigate. Scammers don’t care about user experience—they just want your money.

Insecure Website Connections

Have you noticed the small lock icon in the address bar while browsing certain websites? That’s not just decorative—it’s a critical security measure. Websites with HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) encrypt the information exchanged between you and the site, keeping sensitive details like passwords, credit card numbers, and personal information safe.

If an online vendor’s site lacks this secure connection (you’ll see “http” instead of “https” or a “Not Secure” warning), think twice before entering any information. Scammers don’t typically invest in SSL certificates, which are required for HTTPS, because their goal isn’t to build trust or security—it’s to take your money and disappear.

Also, check for security badges, like those from Norton, McAfee, or other trusted providers. Be cautious, though: scammers know these badges can build trust, so they sometimes include fake ones as a ploy. Click on the badge to verify it’s legitimate. If it isn’t clickable or leads nowhere, that’s a major warning sign.

Finally, remember: If you can’t trust the website to protect your data, how can you trust it to deliver your purchase? It’s not worth the risk. Keep your guard up and shop smart.

No Verified Customer Reviews

When you’re deciding whether to trust an online vendor, customer reviews are one of the first things you probably look for. Reviews offer firsthand insights from previous buyers, helping you gauge how reliable and legitimate a business really is. But if a website has no verified reviews, or worse, reviews that don’t feel genuine, it should raise immediate concerns. Let’s break down why.

Absence of Testimonials

If a seller has no customer reviews displayed on their site or other well-known platforms, it’s a major warning sign. Customer feedback helps build trust. Think about it: would you book a stay at a hotel that no one’s ever written about? The same logic applies to online vendors. Reviews offer social proof—they tell you whether the company keeps its promises. Without them, you’re left guessing.

Why would a legitimate business lack reviews in an era where online shopping depends heavily on ratings and testimonials? Here are some reasons to consider:

• New business: While newer sellers may not have many reviews yet, genuine ones will usually prioritize transparency by encouraging customer feedback.
• Intentional omission: On the flip side, shady vendors might avoid reviews altogether to hide their deception. They don’t want negative experiences exposed since it would drive potential customers away.

Always look beyond the vendor’s website. Search for reviews on third-party platforms like Google, Trustpilot, or Reddit. If there’s no trace of the business anywhere, it’s best to proceed with caution.

Fake or Overly Positive Reviews

Sometimes, scammers go overboard trying to seem legitimate. Instead of having no reviews, they fill their site with ones that seem just a little too perfect. Detecting fake reviews might sound tricky, but there are clear signals if you know what to watch for.

Here’s how you can spot fabricated feedback:

1. Repetitive language: If every review sounds eerily similar, chances are they weren’t written by different people. Scammers often use templates or repeat phrases to save time.
2. Over-the-top praise: Real customers share balanced experiences. They mention pros and cons or small details about the item or service. Fake reviews, on the other hand, might sound exaggerated or generic (e.g., “This is the best product ever! You won’t regret it!”).
3. Unrealistic volume: Does a brand-new company have hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews overnight? That’s a red flag. Authentic reviews build gradually over time.

Another sneaky tactic is when sellers post reviews that look legitimate but only focus on the buying process (“Fast delivery!” or “Easy checkout!”) while avoiding details about the product or service. Real users often highlight specifics, like how the item performed or whether it matched their expectations.

If something feels off, trust your instincts. Take the time to cross-check reviews from multiple platforms. Verified reviews—where it’s clear that the buyer actually received the product—are always more reliable than anonymous praise plastered all over a vendor’s website.

Suspicious Payment Methods

How you pay for an online purchase can tell you a lot about the vendor’s intentions. Scammers often push for payment methods that leave you with no way to recover your money. If an online seller is avoiding secure options or suggesting unusual alternatives, take it as a serious warning sign.

Request for Wire Transfers and Gift Cards

Legitimate businesses rarely request payments through wire transfers or gift cards. Why? Because these methods are non-reversible, making it nearly impossible to get your money back if something goes wrong. Scammers know this and use it to their advantage.

Think about it: when was the last time a trustworthy seller asked you to send money through a wire transfer or asked you to buy a gift card to pay for a product? It doesn’t happen. Established vendors stick to payment methods that protect both the buyer and the seller, such as credit cards or payment platforms with buyer protection policies.

Scammers, on the other hand, love these non-reversible options because once you send the money, it’s gone forever. They often create a sense of urgency, claiming the deal won’t last unless you act immediately. Sometimes, they’ll even elaborate with stories—maybe their regular payment system isn’t working, or they’re offering a special price for wire transfers. These pressure tactics are designed to make you overlook the risks.

If a vendor specifically requests gift cards, that’s an even bigger red flag. Scammers often ask you to purchase high-value gift cards, share the codes, and then disappear. No legitimate business operates this way. When in doubt, stick with vendors that offer traceable, reversible payment options.

Avoiding Secure Payment Systems

A trustworthy vendor will always offer secure and familiar payment methods like PayPal, credit cards, or other reputable platforms. These systems have built-in protections for buyers. For example, credit card companies offer chargeback options if you receive a defective product or none at all. PayPal has dispute resolution services designed to hold vendors accountable when things go wrong.

Shady sellers often avoid these secure systems for one reason: accountability. By refusing to use platforms that protect buyers, they’re shielding themselves from consequences. Instead, they might direct you to send payments through apps with fewer protections, such as Zelle, Venmo (for “friends and family” payments), or obscure payment services you’ve never heard of.

They may argue that secure platforms charge extra fees or take longer to process payments. While some platforms do have fees, most reputable businesses see them as a cost of doing business. Vendors who steer clear of secure payment systems aren’t trying to save money—they’re trying to leave you without any recourse if the transaction goes south.

Ask yourself: why wouldn’t a legitimate seller offer a payment method that protects both parties? If they’re avoiding trusted options, they’re likely avoiding responsibility as well. Stick with vendors who prioritize transparency and buyer protection, and walk away from those who try to sidestep secure payment systems.

In the end, it’s simple: how someone asks to be paid says a lot about whether you can trust them. Protect yourself by recognizing and avoiding suspicious payment requests.

No Clear Contact Information

Legitimate online vendors want customers to trust them, and one of the easiest ways to build that trust is by providing clear, accessible contact information. When a vendor hides or provides incomplete details, it’s often a sign they don’t want to be found if something goes wrong. If you notice vague, missing, or suspicious contact details, it’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore.

Absence of a Physical Address

A reliable business typically lists a physical address on its website—whether it’s a storefront, headquarters, or even a warehouse location. A lack of one can be cause for concern. Why? Because scammers know that providing a real address makes them easier to track down, and they want to avoid being held accountable.

Take a moment to look for a “Contact Us” or “About Us” page. If there’s no mention of where they’re based or if the address provided seems fake, question their legitimacy. Shady vendors often use one of these strategies:

• Fake or vague addresses: Sometimes they’ll include something generic like “123 Main Street” or an address that doesn’t seem tied to a real business. A quick Google search or mapping tool can confirm whether the address belongs to an actual location.
• No address at all: Some vendors avoid listing any address, hoping you won’t notice. This omission can make it impossible to verify the business’s authenticity.

If a vendor is unwilling to share even their general location, ask yourself: what are they trying to hide? Trustworthy businesses want customers to find them easily and won’t leave something as basic as an address out of their contact information.

Incomplete or False Contact Information

It’s not just a missing address you have to watch out for—other forms of contact info, like phone numbers and email addresses, can also reveal a vendor’s true intentions. Scammers often use fake or incomplete details to throw you off the scent, leaving you unable to reach them when needed.

Here’s what to check:

• Non-working phone numbers: A phone number is often a lifeline for customers with questions or problems. If the number doesn’t work or always redirects you to a voicemail box that’s never returned, it’s a major warning signal. Test the number for yourself before making any purchase.
• Unprofessional email addresses: Does the vendor’s email address look legitimate? A reliable business will typically use a branded email domain (e.g., support@business.com). Be wary of vendors using free email services like Gmail, Yahoo, or generic-looking addresses—while not always a scam, it’s less professional and raises questions.
• Inconsistencies across platforms: Check if the contact details on their website match those on their social media pages or any other listing. If you find discrepancies, it’s worth investigating further.

To protect yourself, take some time to verify the contact info. Call the listed phone number, send a test email, or search for reviews mentioning whether the vendor is reachable. A legitimate seller will make it easy for you to get in touch, while a scammer will keep things vague or avoid real interaction altogether.

Ultimately, clear, reliable contact info is key to establishing trust. If a vendor makes it difficult to trace or communicate with them, it’s often because they don’t want to be found when a transaction goes bad. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.

Pressure to Act Immediately

One of the most common tricks scammers use is creating a false sense of urgency. By pressuring you to act fast, they aim to cloud your judgment and reduce the time you have to evaluate their legitimacy. Whether through flashy countdowns or ominous warnings, these tactics are designed to force impulsive decisions rather than thoughtful ones.

Time-Limited Offers

Scammers often rely on “limited-time” deals that push you to buy before you’ve had the chance to look deeper. Have you ever seen a flashing banner that reads “Only 2 hours left to grab this deal!” or “Hurry! Only 3 items remaining at this price!”? That’s a classic ploy. These time-limited offers are meant to rush you into making a purchase without considering the consequences.

Why does this work? People hate the idea of missing out. Scammers prey on FOMO (fear of missing out) by making the deal feel like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But here’s the reality—they control the “deal” entirely. That countdown timer? It’s often fake and resets as soon as you refresh the page. The “only a few items left” claim? Total fiction.

Acting under pressure can prevent you from doing your due diligence, like reading reviews, verifying the company’s credentials, or comparing prices elsewhere. Legitimate businesses may offer sales, but they won’t manipulate you into skipping the research stage. Always slow down and ask yourself: If I give myself 24 hours to think this over, will this deal really disappear?

Fear-Inducing Tactics

Another go-to strategy scammers use is creating a sense of panic. They’ll say things that make you feel like buying immediately is the only solution. For example, they might claim there’s a “global supply shortage,” or that “prices will rise tomorrow.” These scare tactics are designed to make you feel uneasy and pressure you into acting without question.

Some scammers may even include “warnings” about counterfeit products elsewhere to make their site seem like the only trustworthy source. Ironically, this tactic is often used by counterfeiters themselves. Others use more personal fear triggers, like stating that your personal data or account security might be at risk if you don’t make a specific purchase.

Legitimate businesses don’t need to scare their customers into buying. If you notice a vendor trying to manipulate your emotions by creating unnecessary panic, it’s a good sign something’s off. Slow down, verify their claims, and remember—you’re always in control of your own buying decisions.

By staying calm and questioning these high-pressure tactics, you’ll be much less likely to fall into a scammer’s trap.

Inconsistent or Shady Policies

Trustworthy businesses understand the importance of transparency in their policies. When you’re shopping online, clear terms for returns, refunds, and general conditions build confidence and set expectations. However, scammers take the opposite approach, often hiding behind vague or questionable guidelines that leave you unprotected. If an online vendor’s policies don’t seem to make sense, it’s worth taking a second look.

No Clear Return or Refund Policy

A reliable online store knows that not every purchase goes perfectly. Whether it’s a defective product, the wrong size, or simple buyer’s remorse, clear return and refund policies are a standard part of any reputable business. But what happens when those policies are missing or hard to find? That’s a red flag.

Scammers often skip detailed return or refund policies because they simply have no intention of honoring them. They may vaguely mention “All sales are final” or provide a barebones policy with unclear instructions. For example, you might see lines like, “Refund requests are subject to approval” without explaining what that means or how to start the process. This lack of clarity leaves buyers in the dark if something goes wrong.

Here are common signs of shady return and refund policies:

• Hard-to-find information: If you have to dig through endless pages or can’t find any mention of a return process, take it as a warning.
• Unrealistic restrictions: Some shady vendors will include absurd conditions, like requiring returns within two days or charging extravagant fees to process them.
• No contact details for returns: If there’s no clear address or email for returns, how are you supposed to send anything back?

Always check a vendor’s refund policy before making a purchase. Legitimate sellers will make this information easy to locate and simple to understand. If a site leaves you confused or suspicious, consider shopping elsewhere.

Terms and Conditions That Don’t Make Sense

Have you ever skimmed through a vendor’s terms and conditions only to feel more perplexed than reassured? That could be a sign of trouble. Scammers and unreliable vendors often throw together vague or overly complex terms to confuse or discourage shoppers from scrutinizing their policies.

What does this look like? Sometimes, you’ll find language that contradicts itself or policies that are far too ambiguous. For instance, a site might state, “We reserve the right to deny refunds for any reason,” giving them total control without any accountability. Other times, the terms might appear legitimate at first glance but become murky upon closer inspection, with strange clauses buried in legal jargon.

Pay attention to these red flags in tricky terms and conditions:

1. Contradictory statements: Do the policies change depending on where you look? For example, one page may claim you can get a refund within 30 days, while another says refunds aren’t guaranteed at all.
2. Intentionally unclear language: If the terms are full of generic phrases like “at our discretion” or “as deemed fit,” they could be leaving loopholes for denying refunds or support.
3. Unfair liabilities: Watch out for clauses that shift all responsibility onto buyers, such as refusing to cover lost shipments or defective items.

A trustworthy vendor will use simple, straightforward language in their terms to ensure buyers know exactly what to expect. Scammers, however, use vague or illogical policies to dodge responsibility and exploit unwary customers. If something feels off or overly confusing, step back and question whether the business is worth your trust.

Overly Evasive Communication

When dealing with an online vendor, clear and straightforward communication is essential. Vendors who avoid giving direct answers or fail to respond consistently are waving red flags. If someone is hesitant to provide clarity about their products or practices, it’s often because they have something to hide. Let’s explore the key signs of overly evasive communication and why they matter.

Slow or No Responses to Queries

Picture this: you ask a vendor a simple question about their product, but instead of getting a quick and helpful response, you’re left waiting… and waiting. Lack of timely communication is more than just frustrating—it’s suspicious. A reputable seller values your time and will respond as quickly as possible. Scammers, however, often stall or ignore inquiries altogether.

Why does this happen? For dishonest vendors, communication delays are a tactic to avoid scrutiny. They know that a well-informed buyer is harder to scam. By failing to respond quickly, they’re hoping you’ll either give up or make a purchase without having all the information you need.

Here are some warning signs to watch for:

• Repeated delays: If a vendor constantly takes days or weeks to reply, it shows they’re not prioritizing their customers—or worse, they’re trying to dodge questions.
• Generic or vague responses: When they finally do reply, is the answer helpful or does it feel like a canned response? Scammers rarely put effort into addressing specific concerns.
• No response at all: This is the ultimate red flag. If you’ve sent a reasonable question and get radio silence in return, walk away.

Reliable sellers know that trust is built through open and timely communication. If a vendor isn’t putting in the effort to answer your queries, you’re better off finding someone who will.

Avoiding Questions About Product Details

Imagine asking a vendor for specifics about their product—perhaps the dimensions, materials, or included features—and receiving vague or incomplete answers. This reluctance to provide clarity isn’t just unprofessional; it’s a strong indicator that the vendor might not be legitimate.

Why do scammers avoid details? Because specifics can easily expose their lies. Anyone selling fake or nonexistent products would struggle to give accurate answers about the item they supposedly have. Instead, they might dodge your questions entirely or provide responses that feel deliberately unclear.

Be on the lookout for these behaviors:

• Redirecting the conversation: Instead of answering your question directly, they might change the subject or push you toward making a payment.
• Claiming limited knowledge: They may pretend not to know much about the product, blaming a “supplier” or “manufacturer.” A seller who can’t confidently explain their own inventory is worth questioning.
• Overgeneralizing: If you ask a specific question (e.g., “What material is this made of?”) and get a generic answer like, “It’s good quality,” it’s likely they’re hiding something.

Think of it this way: if the vendor isn’t willing to be transparent before the sale, what makes you think they’ll be reliable afterward? Legitimate sellers are eager to provide as much information as possible to earn your trust. If someone avoids your questions or leaves you feeling uncertain, trust your instincts and move on.

In the world of online shopping, clear communication is key to building trust. Any vendor who hesitates, delays, or dodges straightforward questions isn’t worth your time—or your money.

No Proof of Business Legitimacy

Trust is the foundation of any online transaction, and one of the clearest signs an online vendor might be scamming you is their inability to prove they’re a legitimate business. When a company fails to provide clear evidence of its legitimacy—whether through certifications, licenses, or an authentic online presence—it’s often because they aren’t running a real operation. Here’s what you need to watch for:

Failure to Provide Proper Certification

Legitimate businesses, especially those selling specialized or regulated products, will often have certifications and licenses to prove they’re operating within the law. For instance, a food vendor should have permits, while a shop selling electrical goods might need safety certifications. This kind of documentation not only validates their business but also assures buyers they’re getting genuine products that meet regulations.

If you ask for certifications or proof of legitimacy and the seller offers vague excuses or deflects entirely, that’s a major red flag. Scammers often won’t have these documents because they’re not running a legitimate operation, and they know most buyers won’t press them for evidence.

Here’s why certifications matter:

• They confirm the vendor is recognized by industry authorities. Whether it’s a business license, safety certification, or accreditation from professional bodies, these documents establish credibility.
• They build trust with customers. A seller willing to display their qualifications upfront is signaling transparency.
• They indicate accountability. Certified businesses are often regulated and held to specific standards, giving you more recourse if something goes wrong.

If the vendor’s website doesn’t mention certifications or if they hesitate to share proof when asked, it’s best to walk away. Legitimate businesses are usually proud to display these details because they know it encourages trust.

Lack of Social Media Presence or Engagement

A genuine online business understands the value of being active and responsive on social media. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter aren’t just for advertising—in today’s world, they act as proof that a vendor exists and interacts with real customers. If an online seller avoids social media entirely or has a fake-looking, inactive account, consider it a warning sign.

Here’s why social media matters for verifying an online vendor:

• Engagement provides evidence of authenticity. Real businesses post updates, respond to comments, and build relationships with their audience. A dead or empty account, on the other hand, might mean the vendor set it up as a front without intending to engage.
• Reviews and interactions act as social proof. Check if customers are tagging the business in photos or leaving comments under their posts. Scam accounts often disable comments or have no organic interactions. Why? Because scammers don’t want the public calling them out for fraudulent behavior.
• Consistency across platforms helps validate credibility. Look for alignment between the vendor’s website and social media. Are their branding, contact details, and messaging consistent? Scammers often don’t bother maintaining these details.

Think of social media as the modern-day storefront window—if it’s barren, disorganized, or oddly quiet, something isn’t right. Real companies don’t pass up the opportunity to interact with their customers or showcase their products.

In short, a lack of relevant certifications paired with a weak or nonexistent online presence is a surefire sign you could be dealing with a scammer. When in doubt, research further or spend your money elsewhere.

Unusual Shipping Times and Costs

When shopping online, shipping times and fees are usually straightforward. A reliable vendor outlines clear expectations for delivery, ensures costs are reasonable, and works to get products to you as quickly as possible. However, scammers often manipulate shipping to disguise their true intentions. If something feels off about a vendor’s shipping policies, it might be more than an inconvenience—it could be a scam.

Unreasonably Long Shipping Times

If a vendor promises delivery in months rather than days or weeks, it’s a red flag. While delays can sometimes happen with legitimate businesses, excessively long shipping times—without a valid reason—often point to a scam. Why? Because vendors use these extended timelines to hide underlying dishonesty.

Here’s what could be happening behind the scenes:

• Sourcing non-existent products: Scammers frequently take your money before even having a product to sell. Once the money is in their hands, they might claim delays to avoid complaints, knowing there’s nothing on the way.
• Shipping counterfeits: Vendors peddling knockoffs often use long delivery times to disguise their supply chain, which could involve shady suppliers overseas shipping goods at a snail’s pace.
• Hoping you forget: Scammers may bank on you losing track of your order due to the lengthy wait, giving them an excuse to ghost you entirely.

Legitimate businesses work to provide realistic delivery timelines and will update customers transparently if issues arise. If a vendor avoids giving clear shipping estimates or keeps pushing deadlines further and further, it’s a bad sign. Trustworthy sellers aim to meet your expectations, not test your patience.

Ask yourself: Would established online retailers make you wait, say, three months for a basic order? If you wouldn’t tolerate it elsewhere, don’t accept it here. Protect yourself by checking reviews online—other buyers can offer insights into whether these delays are a pattern or just bad luck.

Excessive Shipping Fees

Have you ever been ready to check out online, only to notice the shipping fees seem outrageously high? Overpriced shipping isn’t always an oversight. It’s often a tactic used by scammers to manipulate costs in their favor. Sure, vendors may claim high fees are due to international sourcing or expedited shipping, but when the costs don’t match the value of the product or service, it’s a clear warning sign.

Here’s how inflated shipping fees are used to scam buyers:

• Masking the “too-good-to-be-true” price: Scammers might advertise ridiculously cheap products to attract buyers, then make up the difference by charging absurd shipping fees. This bait-and-switch tactic hooks you with the illusion of savings while still profiting off your purchase.
• Deterring refunds or returns: If a vendor sets shipping fees so high that requesting a return feels like losing money, they’re likely trying to avoid dealing with dissatisfied customers altogether.

For example, imagine buying a $5 item that comes with a $20 shipping charge. Does that make sense? Unless you’re shipping something massive or internationally, the shipping cost should align with industry norms. Many legitimate vendors even offer free or low-cost shipping as a way to attract buyers, not push them away.

To protect yourself, compare shipping fees with other sellers offering similar items. If their rates seem fair while the vendor in question charges triple the price, it’s probably not worth the risk. Additionally, always review shipping policies closely—scammers often bury refund restrictions tied to those inflated fees in fine print, leaving you stuck if the product isn’t as promised.

When shipping costs and timelines don’t pass the smell test, be cautious. Reputable businesses don’t rely on shady delivery practices to turn a profit, and neither should you bet your hard-earned money on someone who does.

Conclusion

Spotting an online scam is all about recognizing the small details that don’t add up. From suspiciously low prices and vague contact information to strange shipping policies and high-pressure sales tactics, these red flags are your first line of defense.

Reliable vendors are transparent, secure, and eager to earn your trust. Look for verified reviews, clear policies, and secure payment methods before making a purchase. If something feels off, trust your instincts—research the vendor thoroughly or shop elsewhere.

Online shopping doesn’t have to be risky if you stay informed and cautious. Always take the time to dig deeper and protect yourself. Have you ever spotted a scam before it was too late? Share your experience in the comments to help others!