Online shopping scams

What is it?

Fake online stores or marketplace listings that take payment for goods that never arrive, or that are significantly different from advertised.

How does it work?

Scam stores often use heavily discounted prices, pressure ('only 2 left!'), and stock imagery to appear legitimate, then disappear after payment, or ship counterfeit or low-quality goods.

How do I recognise it?

• Prices that are dramatically lower than anywhere else.
• No verifiable physical address, contact number, or reviews outside the site itself.
• Payment only accepted via direct bank transfer or unusual methods.

What should I do?

• Research the seller independently before paying — search the store name plus 'scam' or 'reviews'.
• Use a payment method with buyer protection where possible.
• Keep records of the listing, payment, and any communication.

What should I avoid?

• Don't pay via direct bank transfer to an unfamiliar individual for a 'store' purchase.
• Don't ignore a lack of reviews or contact information.

Where can I get help?

• Your bank or card provider, to query or dispute the payment.
• The National Consumer Commission, for consumer complaints.