Online Christmas shopping offers convenience and cash savings, but festive season scammers are ready to take advantage of the uninitiated. Here’s how to shop safely and avoid getting caught out this Christmas.
Christmas shopping has never been easier. With a few taps on your phone or clicks of a mouse, you can have presents delivered straight to your door, often at prices that seem too good to resist.
But the festive shopping rush is also prime time for scammers. From convincing fake websites to fraudulent delivery notifications, criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to steal money and personal information.
The good news? A few simple precautions can help keep your Christmas shopping merry and stress-free.
Beware of bargain websites
An advertisement offering designer handbags, electronics or popular Christmas gifts at 80 per cent off might look irresistible, but unusually large discounts can be a warning sign.
Fraudulent shopping websites often imitate legitimate retailers, using professional looking photographs, familiar logos and convincing customer reviews.
Before purchasing, check the website address carefully. Scammers often use addresses that closely resemble genuine retailers, sometimes changing just one letter.
Look for independent reviews, genuine contact details and a clear returns policy. Remember, a padlock symbol or ‘https’ address indicates an encrypted connection, not necessarily a trustworthy business.
Don’t fall for misleading discounts
Black Friday and Christmas sales can deliver genuine savings, but not every advertised discount represents good value.
Some retailers inflate their ‘was’ prices before promoting dramatic reductions, making ordinary prices appear extraordinary.
Compare prices across several reputable retailers and, where possible, check a product’s price history. And don’t let countdown timers or ‘only two left’ warnings pressure you into an impulsive purchase.
Watch for fake delivery messages
With Christmas parcels arriving regularly, it’s easy to believe a text message claiming your delivery has been delayed.
Scammers impersonate Australia Post and courier companies, sending messages requesting a small redelivery fee or asking you to update your address.
These messages often contain links to fraudulent websites designed to capture credit card details.
Never follow unexpected delivery links. Instead, open the courier’s official app or website and enter your tracking number directly.
Shop smarter this Christmas
Where possible, pay using a credit card or reputable payment service offering purchase protection. Avoid bank transfers to unfamiliar sellers.
Keep purchase confirmations, monitor your bank statements and report suspicious transactions promptly.
If something goes wrong, contact your bank immediately and report the scam through ScamWatch.