As the Black Friday bonanza gets underway today, shoppers are being reminded to watch out for online shopping scams.
Thousands of stores have slashed prices in the run up Black Friday during the pre-Christmas rush. It comes as gardai this week issued a stark warning to shoppers that scammers stole nearly €45 million through frauds and scams in the second half of 2022. Google searches for online scams have increased in recent years as shoppers grow more concerned about fake websites and payment fraud.
To help people shop safely on Black Friday, Switcher.ie has put together its top tips for avoiding online shopping scams. Some useful tips include checking for reviews of products and sites, and to use a debit or credit card over Paypal over using cryptocurrency.
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Here are Switcher.ie's Six tips for shopping safely online this Black Friday.
Check websites are secure before buying items
Make sure the site that you are intending to purchase items from has HTTPS or a padlock symbol at the start of the line. This means the site is encrypted, so your personal information is safe and can't be stolen, which is hugely important if you are entering your payment details.
Make sure that each website you visit has a reputable address, customer care number or online chat. Generally it's best to shop at trusted brands that have a good reputation.
Be alert to scams by checking for reviews
If you find a deal that seems too good to be true, it could be. Shoppers should check for hidden catches and also search for reviews of the site and products before parting with your cash.
If you don't see a review, this could indicate that something may be amiss with the website or products. So it's best to be aware of hidden catches as you won't want to be stuck with a faulty product or a delivery no-show at this time of year.
Use a credit card, debit card or PayPal instead of cryptocurrency
Shoppers are advised to use a credit card, debit card, or PayPal instead of using cryptocurrency. These other payment methods offer shopper greater protection when purchasing items, and it's best to avoid sites that only accept certain payment methods like cryptocurrency or money transfers.
Watch out for copycats and cloned websites
Shoppers are being warned to watch out for bogus websites that have been cloned from legitimate websites.
Key give indicators that a website has been cloned are blurry logos, spelling mistakes, and broken links. If you do come across a website like this, it's best to avoid it altogether.
Check your refund rights
Before you purchase your chosen item, it's recommended that you check the site's return policy. Make sure that you are aware of what you are signing up for and your statutory refund rights too.
Eoin Clarke, Commercial Director of Switcher.ie said: "Deals often arrive thick and fast on Black Friday. While big discounts look tempting, try to avoid getting caught up in the whirlwind of buying things you don't need. Remember, if you don't need it, it's not a bargain."
Mr Clarke also urged shoppers to factor in things like delivery and refund costs before you checkout. He also noted how the cost of living crisis is having an impact on many local Irish businesses in Ireland.
Mr Clarke said: "With the cost of living crisis hitting consumers and local businesses alike, it could be an ideal time to shop local. Many small retailers offer Black Friday deals, so check locally before buying from the big chains.
"Times have been tough for small businesses, and they need our support like never before."
For more information and advice on safe online shopper visit Switcher.ie
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