The internet has made shopping easier than ever—but it’s also opened the door to scams and shady websites. If you’re a baby boomer who didn’t grow up with online shopping, it’s understandable to feel uncertain about where to safely enter your credit card or personal information.
Fortunately, with a few simple checks, you can protect yourself and shop with confidence. Here’s how to know if an eCommerce website is trustworthy:
1. Check for “https” in the Web Address
Before entering any information, look at the website’s address (URL). If it begins with “https://” (not just “http”), that’s a good sign. The “s” stands for secure, meaning the site uses encryption to protect your data.
Also, look for a padlock symbol next to the web address in your browser. Clicking it will show you if the connection is secure.
2. Stick to Well-Known Retailers (or Research Unknown Ones)
You’re usually safe with big-name stores like Amazon, Target, or Walmart. But if you find a deal on a lesser-known site, do a quick search:
- Look up the store’s name + “reviews” or “scam”.
- Visit sites like Trustpilot.com or the Better Business Bureau (BBB.org) to see customer feedback.
If the reviews are full of complaints—or there are no reviews at all—that’s a red flag.
3. Look for Clear Contact Information
A legitimate business will have a physical address, customer service phone number, and email listed on their site. Be cautious of sites that only offer a contact form or vague information.
Bonus tip: Try calling or emailing to see how quickly they respond.
4. Check the Site’s Design and Grammar
Reputable websites usually look polished and professional. Watch out for:
- Typos, poor grammar, or awkward language
- Low-quality images or logos
- Broken links or buttons that don’t work
These may signal a rushed or fake website meant to trick people.
5. Avoid Sites That Demand Unusual Payment Methods
Always use credit cards or PayPal, which offer better fraud protection. Be suspicious if the site:
- Only accepts wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- Tries to rush you into buying immediately with strange urgency
- Doesn’t offer any return or refund policy
6. Use Google to Check for Website Age
You can use a tool like Whois Lookup (whois.domaintools.com) to see how long a website has been around. Scammers often create new sites and disappear quickly. A site that’s been active for years is generally more reliable.
7. Trust Your Gut
If something feels off—too good to be true prices, weird wording, or pushy sales tactics—don’t ignore it. Close the tab and look elsewhere. It’s better to miss a deal than to lose money or expose your personal info.
Final Thought: Use Technology to Protect Yourself
Consider installing a browser extension or antivirus program that flags unsafe websites. Many of them will alert you before you even land on a suspicious page.
Shopping online doesn’t have to be scary. With a little caution and know-how, you can enjoy the convenience of eCommerce without falling into a trap. Stay curious—and stay safe.
