Tips for customers
- Trust your instincts - if an offer looks too good to be true, then it probably is. Legitimate designer items are rarely discounted, so do not rush and believe you are getting a good deal.
- Check the spelling and grammar on the website and of the URL (web address) - often the people behind these sites do not pay a lot of attention or care to this detail. Fraudsters may also try to deceive you by slightly changing the spelling of a well-known brand or shop in the website address.
- Look to see where the company is based and whether they provide a postal address - do not assume because the web address has 'UK' showing that the company is based in the UK. If there is no address supplied or there is just a PO Box or email be cautious.
- Ensure the website address begins 'https' at the payment stage - this indicates a secure payment.
- Keep security software and firewalls up-to-date. Regularly update your internet browser when new updates are released.
- Don't access links in unsolicited emails - fraudsters will design these, along with websites, to look genuine and trick victims into entering personal information. Where possible type in the website address or use a search engine to find the site you require.
- Ask if there is a returns policy or guarantee. Most fraudulent companies will not offer this.
- If you are not sure whether the items are genuine, do not enter your payment details - it is not worth the risk.
- Watch out for pop-ups appearing asking you to confirm your card details before you are on the payment stage. Never enter your PIN online.
