Online Shopping Scam
Online shopping scams involve fraudulent schemes designed to deceive consumers during the purchasing process, exploiting trust in e-commerce platforms for financial gain.
Summarise this page with:
Table of Contents
Online shopping scams are consistently among the top scam types reported in Singapore. Fraudsters create fake listings on legitimate platforms or build entirely counterfeit websites to take payments for goods that are never delivered, fake, or significantly different from what was advertised. With e-commerce booming, vigilance is more important than ever.
How Online Shopping Scams Are Carried Out
1. Fake Websites
Scammers build realistic-looking online stores mimicking legitimate retailers. Victims provide payment details for goods that are never fulfilled, and the website disappears shortly after.
2. Counterfeit Products
Fraudsters advertise genuine-branded products at heavily discounted prices. Buyers receive cheap counterfeits or nothing at all, with no avenue for a refund.
3. Phishing Emails and Links
Victims receive fake promotional emails or order confirmation links designed to steal payment credentials. Clicking these links can compromise banking and personal information.
4. Non-Existent Marketplace Sellers
Even on legitimate platforms, scammers create fake seller accounts to collect payments before disappearing or reporting account issues without delivering goods.
What to Look Out For
How to Protect Yourself from Online Shopping Scams
Research the Seller Before Purchasing
Investigate seller reputation through independent reviews, social media presence, and ACRA registration. Stick to established platforms with proven buyer protection policies.
Use Secure and Protected Payment Methods
Pay via credit card or platform escrow services that offer chargeback protection. Avoid PayNow or direct bank transfers to individual sellers you cannot verify.
Report Fraudulent Sellers
Report non-delivery or fraudulent sellers to the e-commerce platform and to SPF at 999 or 1800-255-0000. Retain all transaction records and screenshots as evidence.
Report a Online Shopping Scam
If you have been defrauded by a fake online seller, report it immediately and preserve all evidence including receipts and messages.
Online Shopping Scam: Your Questions Answered
Online Shopping Scam in Singapore: Your Questions Answered
Scammers create fake listings, offer attractive prices, and demand upfront payments. Once you pay, they disappear without sending the item.
Stay Informed, Stay Protected
Online shopping scams exploit convenience and trust. Always research sellers thoroughly before making any payment.