The weeks leading up to Christmas are both the best and worst for online shopping.

On one hand, you have the most price cuts, sales and promos. On the other, there is a greater risk of being cheated of your hard-earned cash because of false deals, scams, and sketchy sellers.

Follow these steps to stay safe while gift shopping online!

Shop on verified sites

Photo courtesy of ZALORA Philippines

Well-known like Lazada Philippines and ZALORA Philippines are your best bet for safe buys because they’ve been confirmed have secure website data and cardholder protection from top-line assessors like more security.usd.

Take the time to scan through your online shop’s homepage, About Us page, and more for these seals to make sure you’re getting the protection you deserve!

Be wary of deals that are “too good to be true”

You (should) know what products like shirts and bags cost in real life, so if you feel like you’re getting too much for too little, do more research into it before clicking “BUY”.

P500 for three pairs of “high-quality handmade leather shoes”? Sketchy much?

Do a bit of research on your intended buys

Some companies, especially those that produce makeup and skincare, are very particular about the channels on which they sell their products.

For example, the original product X is only available on the brand’s official website. Once you’ve taken the time to learn that, you’ll be less likely to fall for online sale scams!

Shop from the official shops or websites

Photo courtesy of Lazada Philippines

Even within sites like Lazada, brands like Herschel and M.A.C. have official stores. Search for and shop from those to avoid buying fakes!

Read up on the product details and customer reviews

Photo courtesy of Sephora Philippines

Avoid buyer’s remorse by reading up on the product’s exact specs, customer reviews, and instructions for use! That way, you’re sure that you’re getting exactly the item you want in the quantity you want.

This is also a good way to scan for fakes or “overhyped” but ineffective products.

These may seem like no-brainers, but training yourself to go through these tips before making a purchase can be difficult.

Write these down on your phone’s notes or a handy post-it so you don’t forget!

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