Avoiding Online Shopping Scams: What the New Pew Data Means for You

If you shop online, the numbers are sobering. According to the Pew Research Center, roughly one in three U.S. adults say they have experienced an online shopping scam. That statistic comes from a survey published in late 2025, and it aligns with a broader trend: as online shopping grows, so do the tactics used to defraud buyers. With the holiday season in full swing, it’s worth understanding the scale of the problem and taking a few practical steps to protect yourself.

What Happened

Pew’s research found that about a third of Americans report having had an online shopping scam happen to them. The study did not define scams narrowly; it included everything from fake websites and phishing emails to fraudulent social media ads and counterfeit goods. The data reflects a persistent issue that affects people across age groups, though younger adults appear more likely to encounter scams on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencer-driven shopping is common.

Other Pew reports from recent years highlight related concerns. For example, payment apps such as Venmo and Cash App have grown in popularity, but users often worry about security. And a majority of TikTok users say they turn to the platform for product reviews and recommendations—a channel that scammers have learned to exploit. Taken together, the research paints a picture of an online marketplace where convenience sometimes comes with hidden risks.

Why It Matters Now

The holiday season is a prime time for online shopping scams. More people are looking for deals, and scammers know that urgency and limited-time offers can override caution. Fake websites that mimic well-known retailers pop up in search results and social media ads. Phishing emails claiming to be from shipping carriers or stores ask for payment details or account logins. And because many shoppers are buying gifts, they may be less likely to scrutinize a purchase until it’s too late.

The consequences go beyond losing money on a single order. Once a scammer has your credit card number or banking information, they can use it for further fraud. Even if you get a refund from your bank, the process can take weeks and cause unnecessary stress.

What You Can Do

You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to shop safely. A few straightforward habits can significantly reduce your risk.

1. Verify the seller before buying. If you come across an unfamiliar online store, search for reviews outside the site itself. Check whether the domain name uses a slight misspelling of a known brand (e.g., “amaz0n.com” instead of “amazon.com”). Legitimate retailers usually have clear contact information and a professional-looking website. If the only way to pay is via wire transfer, gift card, or a payment app like Venmo or Cash App, that’s a red flag. Credit cards and services like PayPal offer better fraud protection.

2. Be skeptical of deals that seem too good. If a popular item is listed at 90% off during a random Tuesday, it’s probably a scam. Scammers create fake listings on social media or auction sites to lure bargain hunters. Compare prices across multiple reputable sites. If the discount looks unbelievable, treat it as a warning.

3. Watch out for phishing attempts. Emails or text messages that claim to be from a retailer or shipping company may ask you to click a link, download an attachment, or enter personal information. Instead of clicking, go directly to the retailer’s website or use the tracking link from your order confirmation. Never share passwords, verification codes, or payment details via email or text.

4. Use credit cards and enable purchase alerts. Credit cards generally offer stronger fraud protection than debit cards or payment apps. Set up transaction alerts so you are notified immediately of any charge over a certain amount. This way, you can spot unauthorized activity quickly.

5. Act fast if you think you’ve been scammed. Contact your bank or credit card issuer right away to dispute the charge and freeze the card if needed. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Also report the scam to the platform where you encountered it—social media, auction site, or search engine. Monitor your accounts for any other suspicious activity in the following weeks.

The Bottom Line

Online shopping scams are common, but they are also largely preventable with awareness and a little caution. The Pew data reminds us that it can happen to anyone, even experienced shoppers. By sticking to trusted retailers, questioning too-good-to-be-true offers, and paying with methods that offer fraud protection, you can enjoy the convenience of online shopping without becoming part of the one-in-three statistic.

Sources

  • Pew Research Center, “About a third of Americans say they’ve had an online shopping scam happen to them,” November 2025.
  • Pew Research Center, “Online Scams and Attacks in America Today,” July 2025.
  • Pew Research Center, “Payment apps like Venmo and Cash App bring convenience – and security concerns – to some users,” September 2022.
  • Pew Research Center, “A majority of U.S. TikTok users are there for product reviews and recommendations,” November 2024.