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5 signs an online shop might be a scam

What to check before you pay a shop you don't know.

General advice only. It isn't legal or financial advice.

1. Prices that are too good

Big discounts on popular items, especially with “today only” pressure, are a common trick.

2. No real contact details

Look for a company name, a registration number and an address. Chat-only contact is a warning sign.

3. A very new website

Many scam shops are only a few weeks old. Our website checker shows the registration date.

Check a website

4. Unusual payment requests

Be careful if you're asked to pay by bank transfer to a personal account or in gift cards.

5. Reviews with no proof

Look for reviews that show proof. A shop with only perfect, unverified reviews deserves a closer look.

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