Everyone loves finding a great deal.

Whether it's a discounted smartphone, branded sneakers or a massive clearance sale, online specials can be difficult to resist. Unfortunately, criminals know this too.

Scammers regularly create fake online stores, impersonate trusted retailers and advertise unbelievable discounts to trick shoppers into paying for products that never arrive or stealing personal and banking information.

The good news is that a few simple checks can help you separate genuine bargains from expensive scams.

Look Beyond the Price

If a deal is dramatically cheaper than every other retailer, treat it as a warning sign rather than a bargain.

Before buying:

• Compare prices across several reputable retailers.
• Check that the website address starts with https:// and is spelled correctly.
• Look for a physical business address, contact number and clear return policy.
• Read customer reviews from more than one source.
• Be cautious if the seller only communicates through WhatsApp or social media.

A professional-looking website doesn't always mean it's legitimate.

Shop on a Secure Connection

Where you shop online is just as important as where you shop.

To help protect your personal and banking information:

• Avoid making purchases while connected to public Wi-Fi.
• Use your home internet connection or mobile data whenever possible.
• If you must use public Wi-Fi, wait until you're on a secure network before entering payment details or logging into your banking app.

Choose Secure Ways to Pay

How you pay can make all the difference if something goes wrong.

Whenever possible:

• Use recognised payment gateways.
• Pay by credit card where buyer protection is available.
• Avoid direct bank transfers or EFT payments to unfamiliar sellers.
• Keep your receipts, invoices and order confirmations.

Know the Warning Signs

Walk away if you notice several of these red flags:

• Prices that seem too good to be true.
• Pressure to buy immediately.
• Poor spelling or grammar on the website.
• No physical address or customer support details.
• No returns or refund policy.
• Requests for payment only by EFT.
• Products advertised using only stock images with little information.
• Social media pages with very few followers, limited customer interaction or recently created accounts claiming to represent well-known retailers.

Scammers rely on urgency and excitement to stop shoppers from thinking carefully.

Before You Click "Buy Now"

Ask yourself:

✔ Is the price realistic?
✔ Can I verify the retailer?
✔ Does the website use HTTPS?
✔ Am I using a secure payment method?
✔ Would I still trust this business if the item wasn't heavily discounted?

If the answer to any of these questions is no, it's worth taking a closer look before spending your money.

If You Think You've Been Scammed

Act as quickly as possible.

• Contact your bank immediately to report the transaction.
• Change your passwords if you've entered account information.
• Keep screenshots, emails and payment confirmations.
• Report the incident to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The Bottom Line

Online shopping offers convenience and genuine savings, but it also creates opportunities for scammers.

Taking just a few extra minutes to verify a retailer, compare prices and use secure payment methods can help protect your money and personal information.

A genuine bargain should leave you feeling satisfied, not wondering where your money went.