Risks of Financial Fraud When Shopping on International Online Platforms

The development of digital technologies has allowed consumers to purchase goods and services from anywhere in the world. International shopping is becoming increasingly popular, but with it, the risks of fraud are also growing. Online scams on marketplaces lead to financial losses, loss of personal data, and the inability to recover funds. To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is important to understand the schemes used by fraudsters on platforms and know how to protect your purchases.

Main Fraud Schemes on International Platforms

Fraudsters use many methods to deceive buyers. The most common schemes include:

• Fake online stores. Fraudsters create websites that mimic popular marketplaces. They offer goods at reduced prices but after receiving payment either do not send the order at all or send low-quality counterfeits.
• Selling non-existent goods. On marketplaces, there are sellers who post ads for goods they do not have. After receiving payment, they delete their accounts and disappear.
• Fake reviews and ratings. Some sellers artificially boost their ratings by posting fake positive comments. This makes it difficult to determine the reliability of the seller.
• Phishing sites. Fraudsters send links to fake payment pages where buyers enter their bank card details. The fraudsters then use this data to steal funds.
• Fraudulent refund schemes. A seller may promise to return the money but requires pre-payment of a “tax,” “insurance,” or “fee,” after which they disappear.

Signs of Online Scams in International Shopping

Fraudulent schemes on platforms can be identified by several signs:

1. Price significantly below market value. A too-low cost of goods should raise suspicions, as it is often a way to lure trusting buyers.
2. Lack of information about the seller. Reliable sellers provide contact details, legal address, and other information that can be verified.
3. Suspicious activity in reviews. If all comments are left in a short period and look similar, they are likely fake.
4. Payment through dubious channels. If a seller requests payment directly to a card, cryptocurrency wallet, or another unsecured method, it signals potential fraud.
5. Long delivery times. Some fraudsters use delay tactics, indicating delivery times from several weeks to several months, so the buyer does not have time to open a dispute for a refund.

How to Protect Yourself from Fraudsters on Platforms

To minimize risks, it is important to follow a few rules:

• Use verified marketplaces. Reliable international platforms offer buyer protection and the ability to dispute questionable transactions.
• Thoroughly check sellers. Before buying, study reviews, ratings, and also look for mentions of the seller on third-party resources.
• Choose secure payment methods. Purchases should only be paid for through secure payment systems that allow for refunds in case of fraud.
• Do not follow suspicious links. If a seller sends a payment link outside the marketplace, it is a reason to be cautious.
• Keep receipts and correspondence. Purchase documents may be needed when contacting the platform's support service or bank.
• Use virtual cards. For purchases on international sites, it is better to use a separate card with a limited balance to minimize financial risks.

What to Do If You Become a Fraud Victim

If a buyer encounters fraud, they should:

1. Contact the platform's support service. Many large marketplaces help resolve disputes between sellers and buyers.
2. Open a dispute for a refund. It is important to act quickly, as some platforms set limited deadlines for filing complaints.
3. Contact the bank. If the payment was made with a bank card, a chargeback procedure can be requested.
4. Report to law enforcement. In case of major fraud, it is worth filing a report to try to recover the money.

Conclusion

Financial risks in international shopping are associated with various fraudulent schemes: fake stores, counterfeit goods, phishing sites, and refund scams. Online scams can lead to significant financial losses, loss of personal data, and the inability to dispute a transaction. To avoid unpleasant situations, it is necessary to choose verified platforms, check sellers, use secure payment methods, and not trust offers with suspiciously low prices. Following these recommendations will help protect your finances and make online shopping safe.