What is a shopping scam?

In the UK, a shopping scam (also called a purchase scam) happens when a fraudster tricks someone into paying for goods or services that are fake, never arrive, or are very different from what was advertised. (HSBC UK)

Common examples include:

• Fake online shops that look genuine.
• Social media adverts offering unrealistically cheap products.
• Marketplace listings for items that do not exist.
• Sellers who ask for payment by bank transfer and then disappear. (Forbes)

Warning signs

• Prices that seem too good to be true.
• Pressure to buy quickly because of a “limited offer.”
• Requests for payment by bank transfer rather than card.
• Poorly designed websites, missing contact details, or few independent reviews. (HSBC UK)

How to protect yourself

• Use a credit or debit card rather than a bank transfer.
• Check the retailer’s reviews and contact information.
• Verify the website address carefully.
• Be cautious of large discounts and urgent sales tactics. (HSBC UK)

In UK law, if you are persuaded to make the payment yourself, it is generally considered a scam rather than unauthorised fraud, even though the result is the loss of money. (HSBC UK)