Beware of this sneaky tactic used by fake online stores
Beware of this sneaky tactic used by fake online stores
A new online fraud tactic is drawing attention: fake online stores claim they are closing down and offer tempting discounts to encourage consumers to buy quickly.
On Facebook and other social media platforms, these posts play on emotions by combining a touching story, highly attractive deals, and a sense of urgency. Scammers use this strategy to build trust and push people into making impulsive purchases. François Charron from François Charron.com provides more details:
“This wave of fraudulent online stores is said to be orchestrated by the same Chinese companies that sell cheap things at expensive prices on fake online stores. At first glance, it’s tricky to notice the little details that prove an online store is fake. With artificial intelligence (AI), it is now really easy to create credible websites. These Chinese companies are stealing the look of popular online stores and using advanced AI technology to recreate them. These fake websites allow users to share their personal information and buy things, much like their real counterparts, but then end up buying really cheap items. Some tips to verify the legitimacy of the websites include looking at little details by checking the contact information, or comparing the page to the actual website.”
To verify the legitimacy of a website, experts recommend:
- Searching for the company name in the official business registry.
- Checking contact details and confirming the presence of a real phone number.
- Reading reviews on platforms such as Trustpilot, Fakespot, or Scamadviser.
It is important to note that a website using HTTPS is not automatically safe.
Internet users can report these scams on Facebook by clicking on the three dots on an ad and selecting “Report as scam.” Fraud can also be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Tip: Stay vigilant, don’t give in to urgency or deals that seem too good to be true, and always verify before making a purchase online.
