How to spot a fake shopping website

E-commerce portals have completely transformed the way we shop. Most people today prefer shopping online than heading to the brick and mortar stores. Convenience could be the biggest factor, but there are other reasons like discounts, variety, and attractive offers that are hard to find outside. But did you know there are fake sites galore, just waiting to rip you off your money?

When buying men's clothing online, we often tend to get dazzled by the brands and prices on online shopping sites. Have you ever stopped and checked if the site is legit? Not sure how to? Here are a few simple ways to spot a fake shopping site.

Check the URL

Legitimate shopping sites have the company name in the URL. For example, 'nordstrom.com' or 'zobello.com'. Fake websites have weird names, like cheap-gucci-bags.com. Always beware of shopping sites without a valid company or brand name. They're most likely fake.

Unbelievable prices

Online stores are known to give huge discounts, but there's a difference between reasonable and unbelievable. It's alright if a Rs 2000 shirt is on sale with a 50 per cent discount. But if a Calvin Klein T-shirt is available for Rs 500, then there must be something suspicious. Don't be lured by too-good-to-be-true prices.

No clear refund policy

All legitimate shopping websites have a refund policy clearly mentioned, so you know in case of a return or exchange, you will not lose your money. Fake websites don't have a refund policy, and even if they do, it's vague and unclear. Beware of sites where you don't find a return and refund policy in place.

Nonexistent products listed

Men's online fashion stores do keep various products from different brands. But that doesn't mean you'll find multi-coloured Gucci t-shirts. Why not? Because they don't exist. Before proceeding to buy something really rare, make sure the product actually exists, or you'd be parting with your money for nothing.

The design is poor

E-commerce websites have a standard, neat web design, which look professional and elegant. Fake websites do not spend on web design, therefore the design is substandard. Check the design of any site that you find suspicious. If you don’t find the web design like that of other e-commerce sites, you’re most likely on a fake site.

Check brand names

The first thing you should do when you visit a shopping site is check the brand names listed. If you find every brand name to ever exist listed there, then there is reason to be aware. Do not proceed to shop if you find products from those brands available at huge discounts.

No clear contact details

Men’s online fashion stores have customer care service to assist shoppers and handle queries. Fake websites do not have this facility. If you find no contact details or no customer care number, then you’re most probably dealing with a fake site.

Men’s online shopping has become really easy, but there are fakes and frauds everywhere. Use your best judgment to make sure you’re safe when shopping online.