REDDITCH online shoppers are being warned to guard against fraudsters advertising fake designer goods.
People on the lookout for a cheap designer bargain online are often greeted with cheap and inferior counterfeits of handbags, clothes and sunglasses when they receive the goods they have ordered over the internet.
Shoppers are advised to follow the general rule that ‘if it looks too good to be true then it probably is’.
Police are reminding bargain hunters that designer products sold at heavily discounted prices are an immediate sign that something isn’t quite right.
Where possible, residents are urged to buy from well-known, high street retailers and to be sceptical against purchasing from a unknown firm or an overseas retailer.
Anyone who does chose to buy online should avoid paying by cheque or bank transfer and instead rely on PayPal or a credit card to make a payment as both methods will give you additional protection.
Browsers can also search for the retailer online and read reviews of what others customers are saying about the company you are considering buying from.
Bad customer service feedback usually finds its way online quite quickly.
Spelling mistakes and poor grammar on websites are also key indicators thats the website has been put together by a fraudster.
You can sign up to Action Fraud Alert at https://www.actionfraudalert.co.uk/ to keep you updated with what’s going on online.
If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud you can report it online http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud or by telephone 0300 123 2040.
