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Check an online shop before paying

Online shopping is easier when you separate choosing an item from deciding whether a seller deserves your trust. A professional-looking website or encrypted connection does not prove a shop is genuine. Take a few minutes to check before paying.

2 min read·Phone or computer· 5 steps
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Before you start

  • Know the item, expected price and maximum total you are willing to pay.
  • Use an updated device and a payment method you understand.

Step 1 of 5: Open the shop independently

Use a known website address or carefully inspect search results. Avoid following an unexpected delivery-fee text or social-media offer directly into payment.

Step 2 of 5: Research the seller

Look for contact details, delivery information and returns terms. Compare independent reports of the shop. Be cautious of identical glowing reviews and prices far below other sellers.

Step 3 of 5: Read the full order

Confirm the product, seller, delivery date, postage and total. Check whether a tick box starts a subscription or adds insurance or another paid extra.

Step 4 of 5: Choose a suitable payment route

Use an established payment service or card and read its protection terms. Avoid a seller demanding bank transfer. Provide required checkout information only; guest checkout can reduce extra account creation.

Step 5 of 5: Keep the confirmation

Save the order number and promised delivery details. If payment seems suspicious or your card is used unexpectedly, contact your bank promptly using genuine contact details.

Try it for yourself

Your small practice task.

Check a familiar shop’s delivery and returns terms without placing an order.

Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.

A common question.

Does HTTPS mean the shop is safe?

HTTPS helps protect the connection. A criminal can also run an HTTPS website, so check the seller, address and payment request separately.

Official help, if you need it.

These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.