How to Avoid Fake Sellers Online
Stay safe while hunting for the best deals.
Updated: 10 Jan 2026~7 min readSafetyOnline shoppingScams
Understand Marketplaces vs Individual Sellers
On big marketplaces, you are often buying from third-party sellers, not directly from the platform. The platform provides protection, but you should still be careful about which seller you choose.
- Prefer 'Fulfilled by' or 'Assured' style badges where available
- Check seller rating and number of ratings
- Read recent 1-star and 2-star reviews for patterns
Red Flags to Watch Out For
If you see any of these signs, slow down and double-check before buying:
- Price is much lower than all other sites for no clear reason
- Very few reviews or only extremely generic reviews
- Strange payment methods or requests to pay outside the platform
- No proper invoice or warranty information mentioned
Frequently Asked Questions
Is COD safer than prepaid?
Cash on delivery can give some extra comfort, but it is not a guarantee. Always verify the package and brand seal, and raise a return request promptly if something is wrong.
Should I buy from brand websites directly?
Buying directly from brand websites is often safe, but check the URL carefully and avoid look-alike or misspelled domains.