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With many of us spending more time shopping online, it is more important than ever to do so safely. Action Fraud the National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre have put together some guidance on shopping online and how to avoid scam websites to purchase items safely.
1. Be careful where you shop
Do some research on online retailers and check that their website is legitimate. Read feedback from people and organisations that you trust. Organisations that are reputable will have information on their website about how they handle your personal data. Your personal information should only be used to fulfil your order, and it should not be shared with third parties. Emails you receive about amazing offers could contain links to fake websites. If you’re unsure, type a web address directly into your address bar Search for it and follow search results 2. Pay for things online with a credit card
If you have a credit card, use it to pay for things online. Major credit card providers protect online purchases and are obliged to refund you in some circumstances. Using a credit rather than debit card also means that if your payment details are stolen, your bank account will not be directly affected.
Debit card purchases and payments are not covered by section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. You may be able to make a claim for a refund under the ‘chargeback’ voluntary scheme.
Consider using online payment platforms like Apple Pay, PayPal and Google Pay. They authorise your payments and the retailer does not see your payment details. They also have their own dispute resolution schemes if anything goes wrong. They may not provide the same protection as a card provider however, so check their terms and conditions.
When paying for your items, check there’s a closed padlock icon in the browser address bar. The padlock does not guarantee that a retailer is legitimate, or their website is secure. It means that a connection is secure.
If you cannot see a padlock, or the browser says ‘not secure’, do not use the site and do not enter any personal details or create an account.
3. Only give enough details to complete your purchase
Only complete mandatory details on a website when purchasing something. These are usually marked with an asterisk (*). You should not have to provide security details, like your mother’s maiden name or the name of your first pet.
If possible, do not create an account for online stores when making a payment. If you think you’ll become a regular customer with the store, then you may wish to create an account with them.
The store may ask you to save your payment details. Don’t allow this, only do so if you will regularly use the site.
Do not pay by direct bank transfer.
If something does go wrong If you think your debit or credit card has been used by someone else, tell your bank straight away so it can be blocked. Always contact your bank using their official website and phone number.
If you've lost money, let your bank know and report it as a crime to Action Fraud (for England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or Police Scotland (for Scotland). If you don't receive your item (or it doesn't match the description given), Citizens Advice has some useful information about getting your money back if you paid by credit card, debit card or PayPal.
Action Fraud also advise following the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign:. Stop: Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information.Challenge: Could it be fake - it’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.Protect: If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately also report it to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. If you're in Scotland, you can report it to Police Scotland on 101. | 
