Recognizing the trick of selling fake and imitation goods on e-commerce floors
According to a report from the Department of Information Security, selling fake and counterfeit goods through e-commerce platforms is one of the 24 most common forms of fraud as of the first half of 2023. So how to recognize Know and avoid this scam? Let's […] from Recognizing the trick of selling fake and imitation goods on e-commerce floors
by
Editor
schedule17/07/2023
According to a report from the Information Security Department, selling fake and counterfeit goods through e-commerce platforms is one of 24 most common forms of fraud as of the first half of 2023. So how to recognize and avoid this scam? Let's Anti-Phishing (CLĐ) learn more through the article below.
I. The current situation of fake and counterfeit goods is widespread on e-commerce platforms
In recent years, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the explosion of e-commerce (e-commerce). In the period 2021-2022 alone, e-commerce growth in Vietnam will reach 18 - 20%. In fact, expanding e-commerce plays an important role in the national digital transformation process, because it brings many benefits to businesses and customers through creating good online shopping experiences. than. However, it also becomes easy prey for scammers.
In cyberspace, sellers and buyers do not come into contact with each other. This has become a loophole for scammers to take advantage of. There are situations where the images for sale are real but the goods delivered to customers are fake, the products for sale are high quality but the actual delivered goods are poor quality. Currently, the situation of fake and counterfeit goods is spreading throughout e-commerce platforms in particular and "virtual markets" in general.
According to the authorities, although there are full legal regulations and levels of handling fake and counterfeit goods in cyberspace the same as in real space; But the law has not kept up with the reality of violations in these "virtual markets".
Illustration photo – People's Army Newspaper
II. Identifying characteristics and scams
Fraudsters specializing in selling fake, counterfeit, and low-quality goods on e-commerce platforms often act step by step and use tricks as follows:
Create a fake website or online store:
A scammer creates a fake website or online store that copies or imitates the appearance of an official website or store.
They use brand names and images to create trust and deceive shoppers.
Posting counterfeit products:
Scammers post fake, knock-off or products that are not of real quality on their fake websites or stores.
They often use attractive product images and descriptions to attract customers.
Advertising and attracting customers:
Fraudsters use online advertising channels such as social networks, websites, emails or text messages to reach and attract customers.
They create attractive offers, discounts or promotions to stimulate shoppers' interest and make transactions.
Requires prepayment or bank account information:
When customers are interested and want to make a purchase, the scammer asks for payment in advance or provides bank account information to proceed with payment.
They may request payment through unsafe methods or request sensitive personal information to commit fraud or misappropriation of assets.
Delivery is not met or goods are not sent:
After receiving payment, scammers often do not ship the goods or send goods that do not meet the description.
They may use reasons such as shipping problems, shortages, or damaged products to delay or refuse shipments.
No response or no refund:
When customers complain about not receiving the goods or that the product is not as described, scammers often do not respond or refuse to refund.
They may make up excuses or ask customers to deposit more money to resolve the problem.
Disappear and reappear:
Once the scam is completed, the scammer may disappear or reappear under a different name to continue another scam.
They often change their domain name, email address or contact information to avoid detection.
III. Recognize and prevent buying poor quality products
There are many signs that help you identify a product as fake, counterfeit, or poor quality. Below are some typical signs:
The price is too cheap:
Products are sold at extremely attractive prices, often much cheaper than the market price.
This could be a sign of counterfeit, knock-off or fraud.
Missing product information:
The seller does not provide enough detailed information about the product, such as specifications, origin, quality, supplier information, and warranty.
Limited quantity and purchasing pressure:
Sellers apply pressure to buy quickly by encouraging immediate purchases on the grounds that the item is only available in limited quantities or is at risk of being out of stock.
Unnatural reviews and comments:
The product receives reviews and comments that are overly positive, unnatural, or unreliable.
This may be a trick to create trust and convince buyers.
The payment method is not secure:
Sellers request payment using unsafe methods, such as direct bank transfers, payments using unknown e-wallets, or suspicious requests for credit card information .
Seller account is not trustworthy:
Check the seller's account on social networks or e-commerce platforms.
If the account is untrustworthy, with little to no personal information, new activity, or no reviews, it could be a sign that the seller is not trustworthy.
Missing contact and address information:
The seller does not provide clear contact information, such as address, phone number or email.
This makes tracking and resolving related issues difficult.
Lack of credibility and negative feedback:
The seller has a history of negative feedback, has many complaints from previous buyers, or does not have enough customer reviews and feedback.
The accessed website does not have the logo of the Ministry of Industry and Trade
To avoid spending a large amount of money but buying a product of the wrong value, you should:
Research and evaluate the seller's origin: Check seller information, including address, phone number, and reviews from other buyers on trustworthy websites.
Check product information: Make sure you have enough product details, quality images, and accurate descriptions.
Learn about the warranty and refund policy: Make sure you understand the seller's warranty and refund policy, and can contact them if necessary.
Look for feedback and reviews: Find out opinions and reviews from other buyers about the seller and product to get an overview.
Always be alert and think carefully before making online purchases on e-commerce platforms and social networks. At the same time, regularly update the latest information on information protection measures and personal rights in the press and official websites.
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