Online Shopping Scams: How to Spot Them and Shop Safely

The convenience of ordering almost anything online has made scams more common—and more convincing. According to a recent warning from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, scammers are continuously refining their tactics, using fake websites, phishing emails, and social media ads to trick shoppers into handing over money and personal information. The FBI’s 2024 Internet Crime Report noted that losses from online shopping fraud reached hundreds of millions of dollars last year, and the numbers are climbing.

This article walks through what’s happening, why it matters for anyone who buys online, and practical steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.

What’s happening

Government agencies have been issuing alerts about online shopping scams for years, but the threats have grown more sophisticated. The VA News article, published in January 2026, warns that scammers often impersonate well-known retailers, create lookalike websites, and send urgent emails claiming a “problem with your order.” They may offer deep discounts on popular items to lure in shoppers.

Separate advice from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) highlights similar tactics for health insurance scams and military scams—indicating that fraudulent sellers target specific groups, but the core methods remain the same. The FBI’s 2025 annual report confirmed that non-payment/non-delivery scams were among the top reported cybercrimes, affecting hundreds of thousands of consumers.

Why it matters

When you fall for an online shopping scam, you lose more than just the money you paid. You may also expose your credit card number, bank account details, or even your Social Security number. Scammers can use that data to commit identity theft, open accounts in your name, or sell it on the dark web.

The emotional toll is real, too. Many victims report feeling embarrassed or angry, especially when the scam seemed obvious in hindsight. But these frauds are designed to trigger impulse decisions—fake urgency, incredible discounts, and professional-looking websites make it hard to pause and verify.

What you can do: practical steps to shop safely

Here are concrete actions you can take, based on guidance from the VA, FTC, and FBI.

1. Verify the website before you buy

Look at the URL carefully. Scammers often use domain names that are slightly misspelled (e.g., “amaz0n.com” instead of “amazon.com”). Legitimate sites use HTTPS, but even that can be faked. If the site looks unprofessional—broken grammar, stock photos, no contact info—take it as a red flag.

2. Be skeptical of deals that seem too good

A brand new laptop for 80% off is almost certainly a scam. Compare prices with other retailers. If a deal is only available through a pop-up ad or an email link, search for the product directly instead.

3. Use secure payment methods

Credit cards offer better fraud protection than debit cards or bank transfers. Payment services like PayPal or Apple Pay also add a layer of protection. Avoid wiring money, using gift cards, or paying through cryptocurrency—these methods are nearly impossible to recover.

4. Watch for phishing emails and texts

Scammers send messages pretending to be from Amazon, FedEx, or your bank, asking you to click a link or provide personal details. Never click links in unsolicited messages. Instead, go directly to the official website by typing the address into your browser.

5. Keep your devices updated

Software updates patch security flaws that scammers exploit. The VA recommends turning on automatic updates for your operating system, browser, and apps. Also avoid making purchases on public Wi-Fi—use a mobile hotspot or your home network.

6. If you suspect you’ve been scammed, act quickly

Contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately to freeze your account and dispute the charge. Report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to your local police department. Also report the fraudulent website or email to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Monitor your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions for several months after.

Stay informed, shop with confidence

Online shopping is safe when you take a few precautions. The key is to slow down, verify the seller, and pay with a method that gives you recourse. Government warnings like the one from VA News exist to keep consumers aware of new tricks—but the best defense is your own skepticism. When something feels off, trust that feeling and walk away.

Sources

  • VA News (.gov). “Watch out for scams and stay safe while online shopping.” January 28, 2026.
  • Federal Trade Commission. “Spot Health Insurance Scams.” December 2, 2025.
  • MOAA. “Military Scams: How to Spot Them and Protect Your Community.” July 29, 2025.
  • FBI. “FBI Releases Annual Internet Crime Report.” May 13, 2025.