Lesson 5: Safe Online Shopping
Lesson 5 of 6
Shopping online can be convenient, but scammers also create fake stores and fake deals. A few careful habits can help you buy safely.
Before You Buy
- Use stores you know or that have a good reputation
- Be careful with prices that seem far lower than everywhere else
- Check that the website address is spelled correctly
- Look for contact information and return details
Warning Signs of a Fake Store
Avoid: Huge discounts with a countdown clock and pressure to act now
Better: Compare the item on a trusted store before buying
- Poor spelling or strange wording across the site
- No clear phone number, address, or support page
- Only unusual payment options such as gift cards or wire transfers
Safer Payment Habits
Credit cards often offer better fraud protection than debit cards, cash apps, or gift cards. Never pay an online seller with gift cards.
Protect Your Shopping Accounts
- Use a strong password for shopping websites
- Turn on two-step verification if the store offers it
- Do not save your card number on shared devices
- Review orders and bank statements for anything unfamiliar
If Something Feels Wrong
Pause before paying. It is okay to leave the website, ask a trusted person, or buy later from a store you know better.
Quick Check
Which payment method is a major warning sign for an online store?