How to Spot a Fake Online Store in 5 Simple Steps

Fake online stores are multiplying and trap thousands of consumers every day. In the UK, Action Fraud receives thousands of reports each year related to online shopping scams. Victims often lose their money and risk identity theft.

Fortunately, with a few simple checks, you can spot most fraudulent sites.

1. Check the URL and domain name

• Secure protocol HTTPS (🔒) present.
• Domain matches the brand name.
• Domain age (very new domains are suspicious).

2. Verify legal information and contact details

• Full postal address in the UK.
• Valid phone number.
• Company registration number (Companies House).

3. Evaluate the site’s quality

• Multiple spelling or grammar mistakes.
• Blurred or stolen photos.
• Unrealistically low prices.

4. Review available payment methods

• Legit sites → credit card, PayPal, secure payment gateways.
• Scam sites → bank transfer, Western Union, cryptocurrency.

5. Look for external reviews

• Trustpilot.
• Action Fraud consumer reports.
• Independent consumer forums.
• ScamOrReliable.

Bonus: useful tools

• Browser extensions (ScamAdviser, WOT).
• Check HTTPS padlock.
• Report via Action Fraud.

Conclusion

Spotting a fake site comes down to simple checks. Rule of thumb: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Article by : René Ronse | Review guidelines | Review consultants
About the author: René Ronse, manager of ArnaqueOuFiable.com. Expert in consumer cybersecurity, specialist in detecting online fraud, product transparency, and digital compliance. He has over 20 years of experience analyzing hidden subscription mechanisms, unreadable terms and conditions, aggressive sales tactics, and deceptive commercial practices on the web.
Last updated on 12 September 2025.
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