How to Spot Fake Online Stores

Online shopping provides great convenience and widens your options. But are you always 100% sure that you’re on a legitimate site?

Chances are that you’re safe the majority of the time. But vast networks of fake stores have tricked hundreds of thousands into handing over millions of pounds between them. Significant amounts of personal data are also harvested at the same time.

Understanding how to spot the signs of a fake site and general online security can help you avoid pitfalls. Learn more about fake online stores and how to spot them.

The Rise of Fake Online Stores

Data from Lloyds Bank suggests this issue is becoming more widespread. Lloyds reported a more than 200% rise in card payment disputes between 2023 and 2024. It’s estimated that UK shoppers lost £6.6 million in that time, at an average of £55 per ‘transaction’.

The bank has now created a working group to combat these scams by reporting spoof websites and blocking transactions with them.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Many of these fake sites have the appearance of familiar brands and stores. However, tell-tale signs can help you separate the innocent from the illegitimate.

• Suspicious domain names: Check the site’s URL. Does it appear as you’d expect?
• Poor website design: Low-res images and errors in text aren’t associated with big brands.
• Unrealistic discounts: Operate with the mantra, ‘If it’s too good to be true…’
• Lack of contact info: Can you get in touch with the brand using the site? If not, be highly suspicious.

How to Verify Legitimacy

You can never be too cautious when sharing your banking details online. Take Temu, for example. Despite being a relatively new player in e-commerce, Temu quickly gained global recognition. Launched in September 2022, the app recorded over 40 million global downloads within its first year and became the most downloaded free app in the US by the end of 2022.

However, this rapid rise in popularity also brought scrutiny, with users searching for answers to questions like “Is Temu legit?” Concerns over product quality, data protection, and sustainability have fueled skepticism despite its competitive pricing and referral-based rewards program.

Ask yourself these questions if you’re unsure of a site’s legitimacy:

• Does the page link to customer testimonials?
• Has the site been reported for dodgy activity?
• What are others saying about the site?

Protecting Yourself From Online Scams

General online security practices can also help you avoid these tricks. One easy step to consider is using a VPN when you shop online. A VPN adds an extra layer of security by masking your real IP address, making it more difficult for malicious actors to track your browsing habits or access sensitive data.

For example, secure passwords and multi-factor authentication help protect your accounts and devices. Using a credit card for larger purchases also offers some protection through Section 75.

In the end, as with any internet threat, vigilance is key. Scammers typically can’t access your data unless you let them. Browsing with a protective mindset offers the best layer of protection.

If you found these tips helpful for how to spot fake online stores, consider sharing them with a friend or family member and help tackle fake online shops.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.