Online Shopping Safety for Seniors
Online shopping can be convenient, cheaper, and easier than going store to store. It is also a favorite target for scammers because they can hide behind fake websites, fake ads, and urgent messages that push you to act fast. The goal is not to be afraid of online shopping. The goal is to shop with a few simple habits that block most scams.
The most common online shopping scams
Fake stores
A website looks real, but it is built only to take your money or your credit card details.Too-good-to-be-true deals
Deep discounts on popular items, limited-time timers, and pressure like “Only 2 left!”Fake delivery messages
Texts or emails that say “Your package is delayed” and ask you to click a link to pay a small fee.Marketplace traps
Buying from third-party sellers can be fine, but it increases the risk of counterfeit items, missing deliveries, or difficult returns.Account takeovers
If someone gets into your email or shopping account, they can order items, change delivery addresses, or steal stored payment info.
Before you buy: a quick safety check (30 seconds)
Type the website address yourself instead of clicking an ad or a link in a message.
Check the spelling of the web address - scammers use look-alike names.
Look for real contact information: address, phone, support email, return policy.
Search the store name + “reviews” + “scam” if you have any doubt.
Be skeptical of urgent pressure. Good businesses do not need panic tactics.
A useful mindset shift: “This looks professional” is not proof. Scammers copy real designs all the time.
Safer ways to pay
Credit card is usually safer than debit for online purchases because it often has stronger dispute and chargeback options.
Avoid paying by gift cards, crypto, wire transfer, or e-transfer for online shopping. Those are common scam methods.
If you use PayPal or Apple Pay/Google Pay, it can reduce how often you share your card number.
At checkout: protect your accounts
Do not save your card on websites you rarely use.
Use a strong, unique password for shopping accounts.
Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your email and key accounts if available.
Keep your phone and computer updated - updates fix security holes.
Shopping on your phone: what to watch for
Mobile scams often arrive by text message and look very convincing.
Do not tap links in unexpected delivery texts.
If you want to track a package, go to the retailer’s website or official app and check there.
Prefer the official app for major retailers, but still avoid messages that push you to “verify” something urgently.
After you order: stay alert for follow-up scams
Save your order confirmation and check your credit card statement.
Watch for fake “customer support” calls or emails asking for:
your password
a verification code
remote access to your device
Legitimate support will not ask for your login code.
If you think you were scammed
Act quickly. Speed matters more than embarrassment.
Contact your credit card company to dispute the charge and replace the card if needed.
Change passwords, especially email and shopping accounts.
Check for other account activity (saved addresses, new orders).
In Canada, consider reporting to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Printable mini-checklist
Before buying:
I typed the website address myself
The deal is realistic
The store has real contact info and return policy
During checkout:
I used a credit card (not debit)
I did not save my card on a random site
After:
I ignored delivery links in texts and checked tracking inside the retailer site/app
I checked my card statement
Remember:
“Scammers win when you act fast. You win when you pause and check. Always take your time - and if you’re unsure, talk to someone you trust before making a decision.”