Skip to main content

How-To: Shop With Confidence

Smart & Safe Online Shopping: Tips to Protect Yourself

Online shopping has become part of everyday life — convenient, fast, and often more affordable. However, it's important to stay alert and shop wisely to avoid scams and fraud. Here are some essential tips to help you shop safely online:

1. Shop Only on Trusted Platforms

Always use reputable and established platforms like Shopee, Lazada, eBay, Amazon, or official brand websites. These platforms typically offer:

  • Buyer and seller protection
  • Clear refund/return policies
  • Reliable dispute resolution processes

Avoid purchasing from unknown sources such as forums, random social media posts (e.g., Facebook, Instagram), or shady websites. A legitimate online store should provide clear information including:

  • Business or owner identity
  • Company background
  • Contact details
  • Physical store address or registered office
  • Customer support options

🔍 Tip: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you're unsure, don't buy.

2. Choose Verified and Reliable Sellers

Before making a purchase, always:

  • Visit the seller's profile or store page
  • Browse their full product list
  • Read their terms & conditions, especially return, refund, or warranty policies
  • Most importantly: check customer reviews and ratings

🚩 Be cautious of:

  • New sellers with no reviews
  • Products with no transaction history
  • Vague or overly generic listings

Would you trust someone who has no sales record and no feedback? Neither should your money.

3. Ensure the Website Is Secure (SSL Encryption)

Whenever you shop online, especially when entering credit card or personal information — make sure the website is secured by SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption.

Here’s how to check:

✔️ The website URL starts with https://
✔️ A lock icon 🔒 appears in the browser address bar
✔️ Some sites display security badges (e.g., "SSL Secured" or "Secure Checkout")

This ensures that your sensitive information, like payment details and passwords, is encrypted and protected from cybercriminals.

Always trust your instincts. If you're unsure about a product, platform, or seller, pause, research, or ask someone you trust. Shopping online should be easy, enjoyable, and most importantly, safe.

4. Check if a number or bank account is reported / suspicious / scammer on Royal Malaysia Police website | https://ccid.rmp.gov.my/semakmule/ .

Also read:
How-To: Be More Secure Online .

Labels:

Popular posts from this blog

Share: Artificial Intelligence, The Pros And Cons

Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) has become a major part of everyday life. From search engines and voice assistants to recommendation systems and smart tools, A.I. has changed how people learn, work, and communicate. While it brings many benefits, A.I. also has limitations and risks. Understanding both sides helps us use A.I. wisely and responsibly. Pros of A.I. 1. Increases Efficiency and Productivity A.I. can complete tasks faster than humans, especially repetitive or data-heavy work. Businesses use A.I. to automate routine processes, saving time and reducing mistakes. For students, A.I. tools can help summarise information, organise notes, or check grammar, making learning more efficient. 2. Enhances Learning and Creativity A.I. makes learning more personalised. Students can get instant explanations, examples, and feedback on almost any topic. Creative tools also allow people to design images, write stories, brainstorm ideas, and explore new possibilities that might be difficult to ac...
Read more

Share: PHP

PHP is a widely-used, open-source scripting language especially suited for web development. Here's a breakdown of key aspects: 1. Core Concepts: Server-Side Scripting: PHP code is executed on the server, generating HTML (or other output) that is then sent to the user's browser. This distinguishes it from client-side languages like JavaScript, which run in the browser. Embedding in HTML: PHP code can be directly embedded within HTML, making it easy to create dynamic web pages. Dynamic Content: PHP allows you to generate content that changes based on user input, database information, or other factors. Database Interaction: PHP readily connects to various databases (like MySQL, PostgreSQL), enabling you to store and retrieve data. 2. Key Features and Characteristics: Open Source: PHP is free to use and distribute. Cross-Platform: It runs on various operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS). Large Community: A vast community provides support, resources, and libraries. Web Framework...
Read more

Share: Guide to Government Assistance in Malaysia (2025)

The Malaysian government under the MADANI framework provides various forms of assistance to citizens; from direct cash transfers and targeted subsidies, to welfare aid, education support, social protection, and entrepreneurship incentives. 1. Direct Cash Aid & Targeted Subsidies (Federal Government) Cash Aid Rahmah (STR / MySTR) Replaces BR1M/BPR. For B40, M40, senior citizens, and single individuals. Up to RM2,500 per household per year. Paid in 4 phases annually. Register/Check/Login: https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my Basic Rahmah Aid (SARA) RM100 per month credited (cash or e-wallet) to over 4 million households. RM600 one-off for eligible single individuals. Check: https://www.mykasih.com.my Additional RM100 Monthly Aid Automatic for eligible B40/M40 households in 2025. Total of RM1,200 per year. No registration required – credited directly to bank/e-wallet. BUDI MADANI – Targeted Diesel Subsidy RM200 monthly for owners of non-luxury diesel vehicles, farmers, and smallholders. ...
Read more