Online shopping has made life more convenient, but it also comes with risks. Cybercriminals are constantly developing new scams to steal personal and payment information. Whether you’re a seasoned online shopper or new to e-commerce, staying vigilant and secure is essential.

From avoiding scams to securing payments, this guide will help you shop safely online in 2025.

1. How to identify a safe website

One of the biggest risks in online shopping is unknowingly using a fraudulent website. Before making a purchase, check for these security features:

Look for HTTPS in the URL – A secure website starts with https:// - like ours!

Check reviews on Trustpilot or Google – Avoid sites with no reviews or negative feedback

Watch out for spelling errors – Fake sites often contain typos and poor design

Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true – If a deal looks unreal, it probably is

Pro Tip: Always type a retailer’s website address directly into your browser instead of clicking links from emails or social media ads.

2. Avoid online shopping scams

Scammers use various tactics to trick online shoppers. Stay safe by recognising these common scams:

Phishing emails – Fake emails pretending to be from Amazon, PayPal, or banks, asking for login details.

Fake social media stores – Scam ads on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok selling counterfeit or non-existent products

Fraudulent discount codes – Some sites promise huge discounts but steal payment details instead

Delivery scams – Fake “missed delivery” texts or emails asking for payment to redeliver a package

Pro Tip: Never enter your payment details or personal information on a website unless you trust the source. 

3. Safe payment methods for online shopping

Using the right payment method can provide extra security. Here’s how to protect your transactions:

Use credit cards instead of debit cards – Credit cards offer fraud protection if a seller is untrustworthy. For more information on the safety features of credit cards over debit cards, see NatWest's Fraud Guide.

Pay with PayPal or Apple Pay – These services add an extra security layer by not sharing card details with retailers

Avoid bank transfers – If a seller asks for a direct bank transfer, it’s often a red flag

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – Adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts

Pro Tip: Always check your bank statements for unauthorised transactions after shopping online.

4. Protecting your personal information

When shopping online, your personal details can be at risk. Keep your data safe with these precautions:

Create strong, unique passwords – Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols for each shopping site

Never save card details on retailer websites – If a site gets hacked, your details could be exposed

Use a VPN on public WiFi – Avoid entering payment details when connected to free Wi-Fi in cafes or airports.

Check privacy policies – Some websites sell customer data to third parties - we don't! View our privacy policy.

Pro Tip: Use a password manager to keep track of your login details securely. If you're using an Apple product, you can find out more about their password manager and how to use it in the Passwords Guide.

5. Understanding return and refund policies

A secure online shopping experience also means knowing your rights if something goes wrong. Before making a purchase:

Check the retailer’s return policy – Look for details on refunds, exchanges, and time limits

Keep digital receipts and confirmation emails – You may need them for proof of purchase

Know your consumer rights – In the UK, you typically have 14 days to return most online purchases

Avoid buying from retailers with no clear return policy – This could be a scam warning sign

Pro Tip: If a retailer refuses to issue a refund for a faulty product, check if your payment provider offers chargeback protection.

Final thoughts: stay safe while shopping online

Online shopping should be convenient, enjoyable, and secure. By staying vigilant and following these safety tips, you can protect yourself from fraud, avoid scams, and ensure a hassle-free experience. Always use trusted websites, secure payment methods, and strong passwords to keep your information safe. 

Need fast, reliable broadband for a seamless shopping experience? Upgrade your online experience today with our ultrafast broadband packages.