The Smarter Online Shopping Checklist

Confirm who is selling

Look for a real business name, working contact details, a physical address where appropriate, and clear terms. Search the company name and domain separately to uncover warnings or similarly named businesses.

A polished website is easy to create. Verifiable identity, consistent contact information, and a track record are harder to imitate.

Read the policies before checkout

Check delivery windows, return conditions, restocking fees, cancellation rules, and who pays return postage. Save a copy of important terms if the purchase is expensive.

Be cautious when every item is deeply discounted, stock counters constantly reset, or the site pressures you to pay immediately.

Choose a protected payment method

Use a payment option with appropriate buyer protection and avoid irreversible transfers to unknown sellers. Keep the order confirmation and screenshots of the listing.

• Check the exact domain spelling.
• Confirm the final price includes taxes and delivery.
• Use a unique password if creating an account.
• Review recent feedback about fulfilment and refunds.