Identifying a scam is not always easy. However, most cases follow the same pattern: the consumer is asked for a sum of money upfront in exchange for receiving a large sum of money or products at very advantageous or derisory prices in the future.
To help you recognise potential fraud, follow our recommendations:
- Identify the seller. Check the seller's identity and track record as much as possible. You can do this by checking forums and reviews. If you can't find any contact details or if they are dubious, think twice before paying.
- Use secure means of payment. Banks and online payment intermediaries offer tools that minimise risk. Never pay through money remittance companies. If possible, use a credit card as you will have the possibility to charge back an undue charge.
- Look for trust seals and secure Internet connections. Send information only through websites with secure connections, i.e. those starting with https.
- Use common sense. Be wary of offers that are too good to be true. Using logic avoids, in many cases, some mishaps.