Fraud Prevention

1 in 3 Americans Have Been Scammed While Shopping Online: Here’s How to Protect Yourself If you shop online—and almost everyone does these days—there’s a decent chance you or someone you know has been taken by a scam. According to a new Pew Research Center study published in November 2025, about a third of U.S. adults say they’ve experienced an online shopping scam. That’s a striking number, but it also reflects a reality: fraudsters are getting better at blending in with legitimate sellers. ...

Online shopping scams to watch and simple ways to avoid them Nearly one in three U.S. adults have experienced an online shopping scam, according to a 2025 Pew Research Center survey. That figure—about a third of Americans say they’ve had an online shopping scam happen to them—underscores just how common these schemes have become. Whether it’s a too-good-to-be-true deal on social media, a phishing email pretending to be a retailer, or a fake website that looks exactly like a trusted brand, the risk is real. ...

One in Three Americans Have Experienced an Online Shopping Scam: What You Need to Know According to a November 2025 report from the Pew Research Center, about a third of Americans say they’ve had an online shopping scam happen to them. The figure comes from a nationally representative survey of U.S. adults and underscores how common these frauds have become. Whether you shop on Amazon, social media, or independent websites, the odds are good that you or someone you know has encountered a scam. ...

How to Spot Scam Ads Online and Protect Yourself from Fraud If you’ve ever been served an ad on social media that looks almost exactly like a promotion from a trusted brand—except the URL is off, or the discount seems too good to be true—you’ve seen the growing problem of scam ads. These deceptive advertisements are appearing more frequently across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and even Google search results, mimicking well-known companies to steal money or personal information. ...

How to Spot and Avoid Online Shopping Scams: Tips for Staying Safe Online shopping has become part of everyday life, but it also attracts scammers who try to steal your money or personal information. Recent warnings from government agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, remind us that these scams are persistent and evolving. This article outlines common tricks used by fraudsters and offers concrete steps to protect yourself. ...

Watch Out for Online Shopping Scams: Practical Tips from the VA The convenience of online shopping comes with risks. Every year, fraudsters set up fake stores, send phishing emails, and advertise deals that seem too good to be true. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently published guidance reminding shoppers—especially veterans and their families—to stay alert. Their message is straightforward: a few simple checks can save you money and protect your personal information. ...

How to Spot Online Shopping Scams and Shop Safely Online shopping is convenient, but it also attracts scammers looking to steal your money or personal information. A recent article from VA News (.gov) warns consumers to watch out for scams and stay safe while online shopping — advice that applies to everyone, not just veterans. Scams are not seasonal; they pop up year-round, often mimicking legitimate retailers or offering deals that seem too good to pass up. ...

How to Stay Safe from Online Shopping Scams: Tips from the VA Online shopping is convenient, but it also opens the door to scammers who try to take advantage of shoppers. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently issued a warning about the growing threat of online shopping scams, and their advice is worth heeding whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or anyone who buys goods online. ...

How to Spot and Avoid Online Shopping Scams: A Guide for Consumers Winter and holiday shopping season brings a surge in online deals — and unfortunately, a surge in scams. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently issued a warning urging veterans and all consumers to stay alert while shopping online. Whether you’re buying gifts, household essentials, or taking advantage of seasonal sales, knowing how to recognize fraudulent offers can save you money and protect your personal information. ...

How to Spot and Avoid Online Shopping Scams Online shopping has become a normal part of daily life for millions of people. But the convenience comes with real risks. According to data from the Federal Trade Commission, reports of online shopping fraud have risen sharply in recent years, and government agencies continue to issue alerts about scams targeting consumers. A recent article from VA News (.gov) reminds shoppers to be vigilant, especially when deals seem too good to be true. This guide walks through what you need to know to protect yourself. ...