Gardai have warned people to be vigilant when shopping online so avoid becoming victims of fraudulent websites.
In a statement, a garda spokesperson said, "With many of us shopping online, please remember to follow the 12 Golden Rules of Safe Online Shopping”.
With more and more people shopping online increasing, especially over lockdown, gardai have advised shoppers to follow the following advice:
The DOS
1. Buy from trusted sources.
Use brands and shops that you are familiar with or have used before and check the ratings of individual sellers on sites such as Amazon or eBay.
2. Use credit cards when purchasing things online.
Most credit cards have a strong customer protection policy. If you don’t get what you ordered, the card issuer will refund you.
3. Make sure the data transfer is appropriately protected.
Look for the padlock symbol on the URL bar and use HTPPS and SSL protocols when browsing the internet.
4. Many e-merchant sites will ask to store your payment details.
Think twice before deciding and make sure you understand the risks this might imply.
5. Control the recurring charges.
Before providing your card details to pay for a continuous service over the internet, find out how you can stop that service.
6. Always save all documents related to your online purchases.
They may be needed to establish the terms and conditions of the sale or to prove that you have paid for the goods.
The DON’Ts
1. If you are not buying a specific product or service, don’t submit your card details.
2. Avoid doing your online shopping at sites that don’t use full authentication.
3. Never send your card number, PIN or any other card information to anyone by email.
4. When purchasing something online from another person, do not send money upfront.
If possible, reserve the right to receive the goods first.
5. Never send your card details in an unencrypted email.
Some online shops outside of Europe may request a copy of your card and passport by fax as a guarantee.
6. Don’t send money to anyone you don’t know online.
If someone approaches you online and asks for money, think about whether you would give the same amount to an unknown person on the street.
Gardai advise people to regularly check statements and transactions for any frauds or suspicious activity.
If you suspect a transaction is suspicious, you should report it to your local Garda station and your bank or card provider.
