When a Good Deal Is Not a Real Deal
Online shopping is part of everyday life. So are scams that exploit it.
From social media marketplaces to fake websites, scammers create convincing offers that disappear as soon as payment is made.
How the Scam Works
You see an item at an attractive price.
The seller appears responsive and legitimate.
Payment is requested outside the platform.
Once payment is made, communication stops.
In other cases, entire fake websites are created to mimic real stores.
Why It Works
It targets excitement and urgency.
People fear missing out on a good deal.
That urgency replaces careful checking.
Red Flags
- Prices significantly below market value
- Requests to pay via EFT, gift cards or unusual methods
- Sellers who avoid secure platforms
- Limited or no verifiable business information
How to Protect Yourself
Use trusted platforms with buyer protection.
Avoid off-platform payments.
Research the seller before committing.
Final Thought
If the deal feels rushed or unusually cheap, step back.