Inspect the web address
The URL is the first place scams give themselves away. Read it slowly, character by character.
- Watch for look-alike domains, like swapping an l for a 1 or adding extra words.
- Check that the spelling of the brand name is exact.
- A padlock icon means the connection is encrypted, but it does not mean the site is honest.
- Be cautious of links that arrive in unexpected emails or texts.
Look for trust signals
Real businesses make it easy to contact them and tell you who they are. Scam sites usually skip this.
- Look for a real physical address, phone number, and working customer support.
- Check for a clear returns and privacy policy.
- Search the brand name plus the word “scam” or “reviews” to see others’ experiences.
- Be wary of prices that are far too good to be true.
Use a scam website checker
When you’re still unsure whether this website is a scam, let a tool do the analysis. A scam website checker inspects the link and page for known fraud signals.
- Paste or screenshot the link and let it scan for danger.
- Oversight checks malicious links and websites and flags unsafe or shortened URLs.
- It also catches QR codes that point to phishing pages.
Pay in a way you can dispute
If you decide to buy from a site you don’t know well, protect the payment so you can recover the money if it turns out to be a scam.
- Use a credit card, which offers stronger dispute rights than a debit card.
- Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto with unfamiliar sellers.
- Keep order confirmations and screenshots in case you need to dispute.