What are the signs of a fraudulent website?
When shopping online, there are a few signs that a website may be fraudulent. First, take a look at the website URL. A fraudulent website may have a URL that is slightly similar to that of a legitimate website. Additionally, watch out for sites that do not have an “https” at the beginning of the URL, as this indicates a lack of encryption. Second, always check to see if there is contact information available for the website. Legitimate websites will typically have a phone number or email address that you can use to contact them if you have questions or need help. Be wary of online stores that only list a P.O. box or a street address without a phone number or email address. Another sign of a fraudulent website is that it will sometimes ask for excessive personal information. Legitimate websites will usually only ask for your name, address, and payment information. If you are asked for a Social Security number or any other sensitive information, these should be red flags that the website may not be legitimate. Finally, the website should have a frequently asked questions page or some other form of customer service help. If this is absent, the website may not be legitimate. Additionally, websites that contain numerous spelling and grammatical errors are also more likely to be fraudulent. If you are ever concerned about a website’s legitimacy, an Internet search of the site can help you determine if it is a legitimate business.
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