E-commerce around the world, across sectors, has surged this year as pandemic-weary consumers looked online for everything from hand sanitizer and groceries to skincare products and cleaning supplies. The pandemic has pushed more shoppers online, and this trend is likely to stick, even as brick-and-mortar stores open their doors again.
While many people think nothing of shopping online, most are not fully aware of the risks. You want your purchases to arrive on time, for the quality to be what you expect, for a proper warranty and the choice to return the goods you’re unhappy with. These handy tips may prove useful for your next online shopping spree.
Shop with reputable retailers
It’s best to shop directly with online retailers you know and trust. Bookmark your favourite shopping sites to get there quickly and safely. Avoid typing the name of the retailer into your browser bar. A tiny typo could land you on a fake site that looks just like the real one. Make a “purchase” on an illegitimate site and you may unwittingly hand the scammers your credit card number and other personal info.
Vet new-to-you businesses
Did you spot an amazing product from a new seller? Do your homework on any business you’ve never purchased from in the past. Look for online reviews and search the Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM) website for complaints. Check the “contact us” page on the website for a legitimate address and phone number. Then take it a step further: call the business to verify.
Beware of amazing deals
Did you spot an ad on Facebook or Instagram offering rock-bottom prices or an eye-popping offer of free stuff? Reports of lost money from social media scams have more than tripled in recent years. Remember, if an offer looks too good to be true, then it probably is. Compare prices before you buy. Unusually low prices could be a red flag that you’ve landed on a fake site that’s been set up to snag your personal information or steal your money.
Don't browse on public Wi-Fi
Avoid shopping from public Wi-Fi next time you’re sipping a latte at your favorite coffee shop. The guy staring at his phone at the next table could be a hacker spying on your online activity.
And shopping online often requires giving out information that an ID thief would love to grab, including your name, address and credit card number.
Use a VPN
If you ever do use public Wi-Fi, protect yourself with a VPN (virtual private network). A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your computer and the server. Cybercriminals lurking nearby won’t be able to see what you’re doing or intercept your personal information. A VPN is the only way to shop online safely from public Wi-Fi in airports, cafes and other public spaces.
Pick strong passwords
A strong password is like a secure lock that keeps cyber thieves out of the accounts where you store your private information. Never reuse passwords across sites. If you do, a data breach at one company could give criminals access to your other accounts.
Don’t fall for email scams
You might get emails or texts offering amazing bargains or claiming there’s been a problem with a package delivery. Delete suspicious messages from unfamiliar senders. And don’t open attachments or click links in messages because they could infect your computer or phone with viruses and other malware.
Pay with credit, not debit
Always use a credit card to shop as securely as possible. A credit card doesn’t give a seller direct access to the money in your bank account. You’re not out any money if a crook uses your account info to make a purchase. Your credit card company will ask questions, investigate the fraudulent activity and send you a new card.
Keep an eye out for fraud
Check your bank and credit card statements for fraudulent charges at least once a week. Or set up account alerts to notify you of any new activity on your card. When you receive a text or email notification, you can check your account to make sure you recognize the charge.
Mind the details
After you make the purchase, keep the details in a safe place. Hang onto the receipt, your order confirmation number and the tracking number the seller provides. If you have a problem with the order, this information will help you get the issue resolved quickly.
Track your stuff
After you make an online purchase, keep tabs on it to make sure it’s headed your way. If the merchant refuses to provide shipping info or respond to your requests for the status of your order, contact your credit card issuer for help. They may remove the charge from your bill and look into the matter.