In this article, Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson provides some tips on how to avoid being scammed while shopping online. He warns that even big platforms like Walmart, Amazon, and eBay are not always safe from scammers who sneak in their low-quality products. These scammers can deceive customers by posting fake or counterfeit products. Knutsson highlights the importance of being cautious and doing research before making a purchase online.
The article mentions that scammers often sell electronics, which are attractive to crooks due to their high price tags. They list these items at ridiculously low prices to entice innocent buyers looking for a good deal. Knutsson gives an example of a 2TB external hard drive listed for just $19.99 on Walmart’s site, which is highly suspicious.
To avoid falling victim to scams, Knutsson advises looking out for certain red flags. He suggests checking the reviews of a product and avoiding those with scarce, vague, or overall negative feedback. Additionally, if a product is listed at an unusually low price compared to other websites, it should raise suspicions. Buyers should also consider the credibility of the seller, preferably choosing one specializing in the specific product they are looking for.
Knutsson recommends using tools like Fakespot, which analyzes reviews and detects fake ones. He also mentions the INFORM Consumers Act, which aims to increase transparency and accountability in online marketplaces. However, he believes that major retailers could do more to prevent scammers from selling on their sites.
In conclusion, Knutsson emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and doing thorough research when shopping online to avoid being scammed. He hopes that the new act will push retailers to prioritize customer safety.
