Smart online shopping: BBB tips to protect yourself from scams

Online shopping is more convenient than ever, but scams and data risks continue to evolve. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises consumers to use multiple safety checks — not just one signal — before making a purchase. These updated online shopping safety tips reflect today’s most common online shopping threats and safe practices.

Research the seller before you buy. Know who you’re dealing with. Look up the business name, physical address, and customer reviews. A professional-looking website alone doesn’t prove legitimacy. BBB recommends verifying contact information and confirming that the seller has a real-world presence.

Use secure websites. Before entering payment or personal information, check the web address. It should begin with “https” and show a lock icon in the browser bar. This indicates encryption is in place to help protect your data.

Read the fine print. Always review return policies, refund terms, delivery timelines, and restocking fees. If policies are hard to find or unclear, consider it a red flag. Hidden conditions are a common source of consumer complaints.

Be cautious with social media ads and unfamiliar brands. Many scam retailers operate through social media promotions offering extremely low prices. Instead of clicking an ad, independently search for the company name and reviews first. BBB warns that fake online storefronts often rely on impulse purchases driven by ads.

Watch for phishing and delivery scams. Scammers send emails, texts, and fake “tracking updates” designed to collect personal or financial information. Legitimate companies do not ask for sensitive information through unsolicited messages. Contact the retailer directly using verified contact information if you have concerns.

Protect your personal information. Review the company’s privacy policy to understand how your data will be used and stored. If a site does not provide one, that’s a warning sign. Limit the personal details you share to only what’s required to complete the purchase.

Use a credit card for payment. Credit cards offer stronger consumer protections than debit cards, wire transfers, or prepaid cards. If goods don’t arrive or unauthorized charges appear, you have dispute rights under federal law and through many card issuers’ zero-liability policies.

Keep your devices secure. Install updates for your operating system and browser. Use antivirus and firewall protection. Shopping on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks increases risk, especially when entering payment information.

Keep documentation and monitor statements. Save order confirmations, receipts, and tracking information until you are satisfied with the purchase. Check credit card statements regularly for unfamiliar charges so issues can be addressed quickly.

Know your consumer rights. Federal rules require sellers to ship orders by the promised date, or within 30 days if no date is given. If merchandise is not delivered on time or is misrepresented, you have the right to cancel and request a refund. For more information, consumers can review guidance from the Federal Trade Commission.

For more information about shopping safely online, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website at www.onguardonline.gov.